Ordinary Unhappiness

In this mailbag reaction, the hosts tackle listener questions about the intriguing links between psychoanalysis and Buddhism. They discuss Melanie Klein's influence and the American left's need for fresh terminology. Buzzwords like 'limerence' offer insight into modern intimacy issues. The conversation touches on themes of vulnerability, precarity, and education, revealing the complexities of our emotional lives. Plus, a playful dive into what a 90s morning-show format for psychoanalysis would look like adds a humorous twist!

In this engaging conversation, Grace Byron, a talented writer and novelist known for her debut novel Herculine, dives into the complexities of trauma and identity within the trans community. She discusses the eerie blend of occult themes and emotional rivalries in her work, shedding light on how trauma shapes healing journeys. Grace critiques separatist fantasies and highlights the power dynamics that can emerge within marginalized communities. The discussion also delves into the implications of conversion therapy and the nuanced realities of therapy practices.

Dive into the fascinating world of AI and psychoanalysis! The hosts tackle the paradox of AI as a desireless conversational partner. Did you ever think about AI 'torture fantasies' or how we evaluate its sentience? They ponder Grok's absurd trolley problem answers, revealing surprising preferences. Plus, discover why a desireless AI might feel like the perfect therapist—offering a sterile yet reassuring presence. Prepare for thought-provoking discussions that bridge psychology, ethics, and pop culture!

In this enlightening discussion, sexuality educator Lucie Fielding explores her transition from academic erotic literature to therapy, emphasizing the themes of her revised book, Trans Sex. She delves into Freud’s concept of polymorphous perversity, illustrating how it opens up a nuanced understanding of sexual pleasure. Lucie redefines gender dysphoria as a reaction to oppressive narratives, advocating for a focus on pleasure rather than pathology. The conversation dances around the intersections of identity and desire, offering fresh perspectives on trans embodiment.

This Thanksgiving special dives deep into the myths surrounding gratitude rituals and the darker histories at play. The hosts examine how social performances of thankfulness mask realities of settler colonialism and historical violence. Freud’s theories are explored, revealing how primal acts can shape modern rituals. The discussion unfolds on the constructed nature of Thanksgiving as a national holiday and critiques the narratives that obscure indigenous perspectives. Listeners are invited to reflect on the complexities of memory, myth-making, and the ongoing impacts of colonialism.

Dive into the intricate world of Freud’s case history of Elisabeth von R. Discover the fascinating city metaphor that illustrates psychic life. Explore how familial dynamics shape personal narratives and individual symptoms. The discussion reveals the complex interplay between real-life experiences and the formation of psychological injuries. Uncover the distinct gender roles within Elisabeth’s family and her personal fantasies amid turmoil. It's a profound look at how we navigate suffering through the lens of psychoanalysis.

In this insightful conversation, Sarah Miller, a talented writer from Nevada City, delves into her essay, "Pirates of the Ayahuasca." She shares her transformative and harrowing journey from wildfire-ravaged California to the Peruvian Amazon, exploring themes of climate grief and the pressures of psychedelic tourism. Sarah vividly recounts intense visions and emotional struggles during ayahuasca ceremonies while reflecting on the ethics of Westerners seeking indigenous healing traditions. The discussion opens up a critique of capitalism in the wellness industry, leaving listeners with much to ponder.

Dr. Dan Karlin, a psychiatrist and Chief Medical Officer at MindMed, dives into the fascinating world of LSD's therapeutic potential for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety. He discusses the challenges of integrating neurobiology and subjective experiences in psychiatric treatment. Karlin highlights how psychedelics, unlike traditional medications, can reorganize mental patterns, offering new hope for those facing mental health struggles. He also addresses the cultural stigma surrounding LSD and its potential to foster deeper connections and understanding.

Discover the intricacies of femininity and self-presentation in the analysis of a new film featuring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley. Explore how the male gaze shapes perceptions of women’s statements, and delve into themes of aging and body horror. Abby and Dan question societal standards for intelligence and beauty, connecting them to a foundational essay on femininity and power. The discussion offers a thought-provoking look at the impact of gendered experiences and expectations in modern culture.

In this discussion, Nick Peim, an experienced academic in education, and Nick Stock, a postdoctoral researcher, unpack the complexities of teaching through a Lacanian lens. They explore how teachers’ narratives shape their identities and how these fantasies often lead to disillusionment. The conversation dives into concepts of desire, lack, and the pleasures intertwined in educational practices. Ultimately, they advocate for a deeper theoretical understanding of teaching, revealing how knowledge itself is often elusive and inherently unstable.