WTF is on my Mind?!
Author, Speaker, Whistleblower and award-winning Director Mark Vicente was behind the sleeper hit “What The Bleep Do We Know?!” Several books have been written about the film’s remarkable grassroots marketing campaign, which led to its unprecedented success.Mark was born in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1965. Taking his first photograph at age four, he quickly discovered his passion for being behind the camera. After attending film and drama school in South Africa, he began working his way up the ranks of the camera department, from Assistant to Operator to Cinematographer. His first big break came as Director of Photography on the musical “SARAFINA,” starring Whoopi Goldberg. In 1992, he set his sights on Hollywood and relocated to Los Angeles to shoot his first studio picture for Disney; “FATHERHOOD,” starring Patrick Swayze and Halle Berry. At the age of 26, he became one of the youngest cinematographers to shoot a big-budget studio picture. Over the next few decades, he went on to shoot an additional 14 feature films and numerous documentaries, music videos and commercials. Mark soon found there were in him, untold stories he desperately wanted to express as a Director. He was driven by the conviction that tales of greatness, nobility and introspection could be exciting and financially successful. Perhaps because of the very obvious race and class iniquities in South Africa, he found himself propelled to question certain fundamental assumptions at a very young age. Beliefs about human behavior, cosmology, religion, existentialism and mysticism. Along the way, he stumbled into a few situations where leaders with malignant pathologies (masquerading as saintly philosophers) spoke the talk of self-improvement but did untold damage to their followers... and him. Looking back, he can now say he has been in at least two cults. His last foray into personal growth and his defection from NXIVM was chronicled in the HBO series “The Vow”. Mark and a few plucky whistleblowers exposed the criminal activities of the organization, resulting in multiple arrests and indictments. He doesn’t consider himself a cult expert, but by his own admission, “I’m an expert in being screwed over, waking up, and knowing how to spot them.” He’s got a pretty salty approach to most things and is fascinated by the myriad patterns in the human psychodynamic that create the best and the worst in civilization. Join Mark as he unpacks a whole range of topics to do with: Psychology, Consciousness, Morality, Narcissistic Abuse, Spirituality, Cults, Propaganda, Science, Filmmaking, and Philosophy.You never quite know what you’re going to get, as it really does depend on… WTF is on his mind?!
Latest episodes
Aug 11, 2024 • 13min
Sex Scandal in the Gym
In this episode: I ruminate on the lack of justice in certain situations, specifically focusing on a disturbing case involving a trainer at a gym. The trainer engages in manipulative and predatory behavior, including blackmailing clients and sharing explicit videos without consent. Despite clear crimes being committed, law enforcement has been unresponsive. Also BTW - The contrast between the trainer's charming facade and his conscienceless actions is mind-boggling.Note: A few details have been modified (the location where it takes place) to protect victims.Support the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicenteWebsite: www.markvicente.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/X: https://x.com/markvicenteTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicenteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/
Jul 28, 2024 • 20min
"The Emperor's New Clothes" - RETOLD
In this episode: I retell the story of "The Emperor's New Clothes" by Hans Christian Anderson. Drawing parallels to our modern society, I explore concepts such as cognitive dissonance, cultic behavior, gaslighting, mass delusion, and the sunk cost fallacy. There are dire consequences for speaking the truth in a society that values conformity and obedience. I question the manipulation of public opinion and the suppression of dissenting voices. 00:00 Introduction02:27 The Emperor's New Clothes06:19 The Emperor's Deception and the Boy's Fate09:44 The Emperor's Procession and Public Admiration11:12 The Boy's Truth Denial and Condemnation13:08 Silencing Dissent and Enforced Admiration15:10 The Manipulation of Public Opinion17:05 The Consequences of Speaking the Truth18:03 Questioning the Prevailing Narratives19:01 Closing ThoughtsTranscript on markvicente.com THOUGHTS BLOGTranslation of Hans Christian Andersen's "Keiserens Nye Klæder" by Jean Hersholt. Support the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicenteWebsite: www.markvicente.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/X: https://x.com/markvicenteTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicenteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/
Jul 18, 2024 • 1h 11min
A.I. & the Hollywood Collapse? w/ Adam G. Simon
In this episode: I continue my discussion with Producer/Writer Adam G. Simon - about A.I. this time. We look at the ethical implications of A.I. and the lack of regulations and ethical constraints in its development. Adam discusses the state of Hollywood, describing it as a corrupt industry driven by money and power. He explores the impact of A.I. on storytelling and expresses his worries about the loss of creativity and the homogenization of content. We discuss Nolan A.I. - a creative tool that empowers writers and filmmakers by providing co-writing, coverage, and deliverable creation features. It focuses on the individual creator's style and ideas, rather than relying on pre-existing works. Adam asserts that this particular A.I. is designed to enhance creativity and provide objective feedback, eliminating biases and nepotism often found in the industry. It allows creators to retain control over their work and bypass traditional gatekeepers. The goal is to put the power back in the hands of creatives and disrupt the current education and production systems. However, we always need to be mindful of the ethical use of A.I. and the potential for it to be misused by those in power. Adam's InstagramAdam's ArticleNOLAN.AIChapters 00:00 Intro 02:00 The Assassination Attempt 05:09 The Ethical Implications of AI 12:41 The Corrupt Nature of Hollywood 26:18 AI's Impact on Storytelling 34:53 The Need for a Shake-Up in Hollywood 35:20 Using AI like an Iron Man Suit 37:36 Nolan AI's Focus on Individual Creativity 40:59 Incredible Coverage and Feedback with Nolan AI 53:57 Putting Power Back in the Hands of Creatives 01:00:25 Objective Feedback and Eliminating Biases with Nolan AI 01:06:09 Collaboration and Maintaining Origin of Ideas Support the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicenteWebsite: www.markvicente.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/X: https://x.com/markvicenteTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicenteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/
Jul 7, 2024 • 1h 56min
From the Mormon Church to the Cult of Hollywood w/ Adam G. Simon
In this episode: I talk to Adam G. Simon, a screenwriter, producer, and actor. We discuss Adam's background as a bodyguard and close protection specialist, his experiences in the Mormon Church, and his journey of leaving the church. We also touch on the investigations department within the church and the control it exerts over its members. We explore themes of abuse, manipulation, and the fear of leaving a religious community. Adam discusses his journey from Mormonism to questioning and leaving the church. He talks about the indoctrination he experienced as a child and the fear-based teachings about God. We also explore propaganda and how it is prevalent in various aspects of society, including politics and intelligence operations. Adam emphasizes the importance of questioning and critical thinking in order to see through the lies and manipulation. He reflects on his journey as a filmmaker and the challenges he has faced in the industry. Adam discusses the importance of creating his own content and owning it, rather than acquiescing to the powers that be in Hollywood. He also explores the cult-like nature of the entertainment industry, highlighting the propaganda and manipulation that exists within it. 00:00 Intro03:11 Adam's Background as a Bodyguard and Close Protection Specialist 13:06 The Investigations Department within the Mormon Church 27:22 Discovering Abuse and Questioning the Church 36:43 Leaving the Church and Facing the Consequences 38:36 Indoctrination and Fear-based Teachings 43:09 Questioning and Leaving the Church 44:08 Recognizing Patterns of Propaganda 47:30 The Power of Questioning and Critical Thinking 52:22 Finding Truth and Authenticity 01:19:25 Creating Your Own Content and Owning It 01:33:20 The Cult-Like Nature of the Entertainment Industry 01:44:12 Valuing Life and Personal Relationships 01:50:42 Favorite Films: 'The Grey,' 'Man on Fire,' and 'Blade Runner' Support the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicenteWebsite: www.markvicente.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/X: https://x.com/markvicenteTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicenteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/
Jun 30, 2024 • 1h 4min
Narcissistic Psychopaths are Molding our Society w/ Richard Grannon
In this Episode: I chat with Richard Grannon about the concept of narcissistic psychopathy and its impact on power structures and society. He delves into the characteristics of narcissistic psychopaths, their delusional and power-hungry nature, and their ability to manipulate and control others. The discussion highlights the dangers of narcissistic psychopathy becoming the dominant influence in societal structures and the need for cynicism and resistance. It also touches on the role of fantasy and ideology in shaping society, using examples like Facebook as a platform influenced by the owner's pathology. The conversation emphasizes the need for systemic collapse and rebirth to address the pervasive influence of narcissistic psychopathy. We discuss the dynamics of being internalized by a cult leader and becoming a part of their system. Richard explains how individuals in a cult become mini-me’s, adopting the fragility, hypersensitivity, and narcissistic traits of the leader. We also get into the division and the manipulation of dividing lines by those in power. Richard emphasizes that the true dividing line in humanity is between humans and psychopaths, and that everything else is a distraction. He also discusses the creation of frames of reference by those in power and the limitations of our freedoms within those frames. We conclude our chat by exploring the idea of controlling our own fantasies and choosing healthier ones to navigate the abusive relationship with our culture.https://www.richardgrannon.com/https://members.richardgrannon.com/narcissistic-cults-decoded-courseChapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:34 Defining Narcissistic Psychopathy06:00 The Will and Intentionality in Society08:25 The Risks and Consequences of Seeking Power12:23 The Importance of Cynicism and Resistance16:13 Fantasy and Ideology in Shaping Society17:33 The Need for Systemic Collapse and Rebirth36:19 The True Dividing Line in Humanity 44:26 Manipulation of Frames of Reference54:21 Terrifying Choices: Control or Free Fall01:02:34 Controlling Our Own FantasiesSupport the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicenteWebsite: www.markvicente.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/X: https://x.com/markvicenteTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicenteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/
Jun 23, 2024 • 1h 1min
Why We Follow Psychopaths? with Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, Edward Dutton
In this episode: A conversation with Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, Edward Dutton. We cover a wide range of topics, including the seminar on Narcissistic Psychopathy we just completed, the background of Professor Dutton, discussions on autism, the concept of heresy, controversial views, the adaptive nature of religion, and the influence of intelligence on manipulation and societal dynamics. The conversation delves into the societal shift towards dogma, the psychology of giving power to psychopathic leaders, and the departure from scientific reality. It explores the evolutionary basis for group behaviour, the impact of belief in lies on mental health, and the historical patterns of societal dogmas. We also touch on the association between traditional religiousness and mental health, as well as the impact of conformity to current beliefs on anxiety.Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, Edward Dutton.https://edwarddutton.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction and the Narcissistic Psychopathy Seminar04:17 Understanding Autism and the Concept of Heresy12:52 Controversial Views and Their Impact on Societal Discourse25:05 Intelligence, Manipulation, and Societal Dynamics31:38 The Societal Shift Towards Dogma35:29 The Evolutionary Basis for Group Behaviour38:47 The Impact of Belief in Lies on Mental Health52:46 Understanding the Psychology of Giving Power to Psychopathic Leaders57:14 The Departure from Scientific RealitySupport the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicenteWebsite: www.markvicente.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/X: https://x.com/markvicenteTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicenteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/
Jun 14, 2024 • 1h 5min
STAY DAMAGED with comedian Rob Van Vuuren (aka Namaste Bae)
In this episode: I interview Rob van Vuuren, a comedian and actor known for his character Namaste Bae. We discuss the origins of the character, the comedy scene in South Africa, and the dangers of certainty and cult-like behavior. Rob shares how he uses comedy to process the absurdity and insanity of everyday life. We also touch on the global appeal of alternative healing and the importance of vulnerability in comedy. Rob discusses his experiences as an artist and comedian, particularly in relation to his character Namaste Bae. He talks about the challenges of creating content and the interesting questions that arise about how people perceive his character. He also discusses the cathartic nature of comedy and the importance of empathy in connecting with audiences.https://www.instagram.com/robvanvuuren/https://linktr.ee/robvanvuurenRob's stand-up comedy show: After wildly successful national and international tours and winning the Gold Standard Bank Ovation Award at the National Arts Festival 2023, Namaste Bae: Blessings and Kombucha is back. A healing ceremony unlike any you’ve ever experienced brought to you by the new age satirical guru taking social media by storm. Some say he was born with a bottle of kombucha in one hand and a yoga mat in the other during a Vedic Shadow Planet eclipse. Some say he takes all the psychedelics so you don’t have to. Some say he is still looking for a ticket to Burning Man. Whatever they say, Namaste Bae is the guru you both need and deserve. A self proclaimed oracle of the Mother Scoby, Namaste Bae will help you find yourself inside yourself and with the power of comedic catharsis he will help you give birth to a better version of yourself. Namaste Bae is the globally viral brainchild of multi-award winning South African comedian and actor Rob van Vuuren, and will provide you with a night of healing hilarity and titillating transcendence you won’t forget!Chapters00:00 Namaste Bae tries to connect with Mark03:18 The Origins of Namaste Bae08:02 Comedy and Insanity in South Africa 12:45 The Global Appeal and Pitfalls of Alternative Healing13:44 Embracing Uncertainty and Fallibility15:10 The Role of Comedy in South Africa25:13 Finding Clarity and Responding vs Reacting 28:55 Navigating the Seduction of Fame and Power32:06 Controlling the Narrative and Assumptions32:58 The Cathartic Power of Comedy44:35 Challenging Perceptions through Comedy52:53 The Fulfillment of the Artistic Journey59:37 Releasing the Pressure through Comedy01:01:03 Navigating a Confusing and Polarized World01:04:09 Staying Curious and Finding Fulfillment as an ArtistSupport the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicenteWebsite: www.markvicente.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/X: https://x.com/markvicenteTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicenteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/
Jun 7, 2024 • 28min
The Goodness Trap
In this episode: I discuss the concept of the goodness trap, where people become so attached to the idea of being good that they ignore or justify bad behavior. I explore how this trap can be seen in various contexts, such as political extremism, cults, and the protection of institutions. I also highlight the danger of virtue signaling and the need for individuals to critically examine their own ideological teams and actions. I encourage listeners to engage in nuance and self-reflection rather than simply pointing out the flaws in others.00:00 Introduction and the Viral John Cleese Reel03:19 Us vs. Them Mentality08:05 The Dilemma of Protecting Institutions14:06 Virtue Signaling and the Protection of Children23:46 The Danger of Pretending to Be Good26:39 Examining Our Own Teams and Engaging in NuanceSupport the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicenteWebsite: www.markvicente.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/X: https://x.com/markvicenteTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicenteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/
May 31, 2024 • 1h 7min
BRAINWASHED! - with Behavioural Scientist and Author Patrick Fagan
In this Episode: Author, Lecturer & Behavioural Scientist Patrick Fagan and I delve into the topics of brainwashing, propaganda, manipulation, and the impact of psychological tactics on behaviour. We explore the influence of communication, media, and societal forces on individuals, as well as the role of trauma and vulnerability in susceptibility to manipulation. The discussion also touches on the concept of the 'blip' and its role in creating vulnerability, as well as the use of psychological tactics in intelligence and political agendas. We also cover the manipulation techniques used in propaganda, brainwashing, and influence and explore the impact of cognitive biases, the power of visual imagery, and the illusion of control. Finally, we talk about immunity from manipulation and the internal journey of self-awareness and humility. FREE YOUR MIND: The new world of manipulation and how to resist it.Written by Laura Dodsworth & Patrick FaganLaura is an Author, Journalist and Photographer.Patrick is a Behavioural Scientist, Author & LecturerWeaponizing FilmmakingGHOSTS IN THE MACHINE 1GHOSTS IN THE MACHINE 2Chapters00:00 The Influence of Brainwashing and Propaganda19:28 The Vulnerability of the 'Blip'21:18 Psychological Tactics and Manipulation28:01 Intelligence, Politics, and Psychological Influence33:19 Unraveling Manipulation Techniques42:15 The Power of Visual Imagery47:30 The Illusion of Control and Cognitive Biases59:39 Developing Immunity from Manipulation01:03:22 The Journey of Self-Awareness and Humilitybrainwashing, propaganda, manipulation, psychological tactics, communication, media, societal influence, trauma, vulnerability, blip, psychological resistance, intelligence, political agendas, propaganda, brainwashing, cognitive biases, visual imagery, illusion of control, immunity, self-awareness, humilitySupport the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicenteWebsite: www.markvicente.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/X: https://x.com/markvicenteTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicenteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/
May 4, 2024 • 37min
NXIVM's War Against Hate
Brave Expression in the Age of Intolerance with Africa BrookeBeyond the Self - with Africa Brooke releasing cult-like thinking and rigid identities w/ Mark VicenteIdentical News MontageThe Corporation FilmNarcissistic Psychopathy: A Global Dark Force. 25th & 26th of May in Liverpool, UKGary BreckaDecoding Cults & Narcissists with Mark Vicente and Richard GrannonSupport the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicenteWebsite: www.markvicente.comYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/X: https://x.com/markvicenteTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicenteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/
