The Jordan Harbinger Show

Marina Nemat, a human rights activist and author, shares her harrowing journey of survival after being imprisoned in Iran's notorious Evin Prison following the Islamic Revolution. She recounts life before the revolution, offering a stark contrast to the oppression that ensued. Marina details the torture she endured, her ultimate release, and her current work advocating for human rights. She also reflects on the resilience of the Iranian people and draws parallels to ongoing protests, emphasizing the importance of vigilance against authoritarianism.

Forrest Galante, a wildlife biologist and conservationist known for his work on 'Extinct or Alive,' shares wild tales from his adventurous life. He recounts a bizarre encounter with an Amazonian shaman and reflects on his nearly feral childhood in Zimbabwe. Forrest also discusses his transition from an ant-counting biologist to a reality TV star on 'Naked and Afraid,' emphasizing the unique challenges of wildlife conservation. His thrilling and sometimes dangerous adventures in search of presumed extinct animals offer a captivating glimpse into the unpredictable world of nature.

Joining the discussion is David C. Smalley, a fact-checker, comedian, and podcast host renowned for debunking myths. Together, they explore the fascinating origins of Ouija boards, tracing back to a prank by two sisters that sparked a spiritualism sensation in the 19th century. The conversation highlights the psychological aspects behind the board’s movements, including the ideomotor effect, and addresses misconceptions while revealing its cultural impact. Expect a mix of humor, history, and critical thinking as they dissect this iconic tool of the supernatural!

Dive into a gripping tale of family betrayal as a woman confronts her brother-in-law's blackmailing behavior, sparked by disturbing secrets from the past. Amid the emotional chaos, valuable insights on legal recourse, the importance of documentation, and self-care emerge. Switch gears to the challenges of adult education and familial pressures, where life experiences can be turned into strengths. Humor and empathy intertwine, reminding us all to navigate personal crises and relationships with resilience and clarity.

In this intriguing discussion, guest Alastair Smith, a political science professor at NYU and co-author of "The Dictator's Handbook," delves into the mechanics behind dictators' rise and retention of power. He explains how foreign aid often empowers these regimes rather than helping citizens, and why bad behavior can lead to political success. Smith also critiques the complexities of U.S. foreign aid and its unintended consequences, all while addressing the stark realities faced by those living under authoritarian rule.

Alastair Smith, a political science professor at NYU and co-author of "The Dictator’s Handbook," delves into the dark yet fascinating world of dictators. He discusses how these leaders maintain power, often at the expense of their citizens. Alastair explains the paradox of bad behavior being effective in politics and highlights the detrimental impacts of foreign aid on democratization. He also examines the psychological strategies dictators use to control their populations and questions the potential for reforming our own governments based on these insights.

David C. Smalley, a comedian and fact-checker known for debunking misconceptions, joins to explore the darker side of the funeral industry. They discuss how the average funeral costs over $11,000 and the shocking exploitation of grieving families. With 88,000 bodies unclaimed annually and the harmful environmental impacts of embalming fluids, the duo shines a light on the industry's lack of regulation. Smalley advocates for transparency, ethical practices, and sustainable burial alternatives, challenging listeners to rethink how they view death and the associated costs.

Therapists can sometimes be more confusing than helpful. Discover critical red flags that indicate a toxic therapeutic relationship and learn how to hold your therapist accountable. There's also a discussion on how to support a struggling friend while maintaining your own well-being. Plus, get savvy tips for persuading your employer to fund your doctorate, aligning your personal goals with company interests. Lastly, navigate the complexities of activism, family life, and the need for community support in fitness.

Mark Manson, New York Times bestselling author of "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," discusses his journey from the pickup artist scene toward helping people overcome insecurities. He addresses the pitfalls of delusional positivity and how real personal growth comes from applying hard-earned lessons. Manson emphasizes that no emotions are inherently bad, only our reactions to them. He reflects on challenges in family dynamics and the issues surrounding toxic masculinity while offering insights into authentic communication and navigating life's complexities.

Florence Williams, a journalist and author known for her exploration of nature and human experience, delves into the profound effects of heartbreak. She explains that emotional pain activates similar brain responses as physical pain and can lead to serious health risks, including chronic illnesses. Williams discusses gender differences in experiencing heartbreak and the emotional repercussions of loneliness, suggesting that engaging with nature can aid in healing. Tune in for insights on the surprising science behind the heart's most challenging moments!