The Jordan Harbinger Show

Ian Bremmer, author of "The Power of Crisis" and president of Eurasia Group, provides a sharp geopolitical analysis. He discusses how the unified Western response to Ukraine has altered Russia's position, turning it closer to Iran. Bremmer warns about the dangers of Xi Jinping's increasing power in China and the unchecked proliferation of AI, which can fuel misinformation. He also highlights the troubling rise of political polarization in the U.S. and the looming crises of water scarcity that governments are unprepared for.

Kevin Dutton, author and psychopathy expert, joins the discussion to reveal surprising truths about psychopathy. He explains the distinction between psychopaths and sociopaths and highlights potential upsides to psychopathic traits, especially in high-stress careers. Dutton tackles the idea that children can show psychopathic tendencies and shares a fun quiz for listeners to assess their own traits. The conversation also teases out our fascination with the darker elements of human behavior and the psychological nuances driving these interests.

Journalist and podcaster Andrew Gold joins to explore whether we can truly decode body language to uncover hidden thoughts. They discuss how cues like eye movement and posture can suggest deception but emphasize the nuances that make interpretation tricky. The conversation dives into high-profile cases like Amanda Knox, illustrating the perils of relying solely on body language in judgment. They also touch on the complexities of manipulative behaviors and even the skepticism surrounding self-proclaimed body language experts, making for a thought-provoking discussion.

Navigating the challenges of a marriage impacted by borderline personality disorder sparks a deep discussion on responsibility and communication. Insights on handling financial pressures during a union strike shed light on loyalty versus personal gain. Wedding planning takes a turn as listeners confront boundary issues with overbearing parents. Humorous takes on unconventional requests create relatable moments, while serious reflections reveal the emotional toll of mental health in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of connection and resilience.

Kelly Richmond Pope, an expert on fraud and author of "Fool Me Once," dives into the complexities of a trillion-dollar industry. She discusses the psychology behind fraud and the 'fraud triangle' that reveals motivations beyond greed. Pope shares insights on different types of fraudsters and why such behavior is rising today. She emphasizes prevention strategies for individuals and businesses, including recognizing warning signs. With eye-opening examples, she sheds light on the moral ambiguities that can lead to ethical breaches.

Jonathan Kennedy, author of "Pathogenesis: A History of the World in Eight Plagues," delves into how pathogens have intricately molded humanity. He reveals that bacteria far outnumber humans and even contribute to our DNA. Kennedy discusses the role of gut microbiota in our moods and behavior and highlights how Neanderthal interactions have fortified our immunity. The transition to agriculture, he notes, sparked progress while unleashing lethal pandemics. Explore the profound legacies of diseases from the past and their enduring implications for our society.

In this engaging discussion, Dave Farina, YouTube personality and co-host of Skeptical Sunday, dives into the scientific validity of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian health practice. He critiques the allure of Ayurvedic detox claims, pointing out the confusion surrounding toxins and the body's natural abilities. The conversation also tackles the commercialization of Ayurveda and the risks of romanticizing outdated medical traditions. With a sharp eye on the intersection of ancient wisdom and modern skepticism, Farina emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence in health.

Dive into the challenges of co-parenting with a chaotic ex who invents custody reasons, highlighting emotional struggles and the need for communication. Discover strategies for promoting a skilled but socially challenged developer and setting boundaries with intrusive family members. Explore ethical dilemmas surrounding fast fashion, particularly Shein, and the impact of differing beliefs in conservative families, offering insights into authenticity and navigating personal truths.

Paul Hutchinson, the executive producer of "Sound of Freedom" and an experienced investor, dives into the harrowing world of child trafficking. He recounts his extensive experience in undercover operations, explaining how he builds trust in corrupt environments while staying true to himself. Hutchinson discusses the urgent need for awareness and proactive measures to protect children. He also critiques media portrayals of trafficking, emphasizing the importance of personal connections in prevention. Tune in for eye-opening insights on this critical issue.

Julian Walker, co-author of Conspirituality and an authority on the blend of spirituality and conspiracy theories, explains how wellness influencers spiraled into conspiratorial thinking since COVID. He discusses the concept of 'conspirituality,' where positive New Age beliefs intertwine with negative conspiracy narratives, revealing societal impacts. The conversation critiques the ethical responsibilities of content creators and explores the psychological effects of conspiracy on mental health and community dynamics. Walker highlights the importance of rational discourse in countering misinformation.