You Must Be Some Kind of Therapist

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Diana Lutfi, a bioethics and legal scholar, who recently authored an amicus brief on behalf of the detransitioners community in the Supreme Court case, United States of America v. Jonathan Skrmetti. We dive deep into the implications of this landmark case, which challenges Tennessee's prohibition on “gender-affirming care” for minors. Diana explains how this case could set a precedent affecting similar laws in 26 states, raising critical questions about the future of sex trait modification.We discuss the complexities surrounding the concept of "standards of care" in pediatric gender treatment, particularly how these standards can be influenced by political agendas rather than solid evidence. Diana emphasizes the importance of recognizing biological differences in healthcare and the inherent discrimination that occurs in medical treatment based on sex. We also explore the tension between parental rights, state regulations, and the autonomy of minors in making life-altering decisions.Throughout our conversation, we aim to uncover the broader implications of this case for healthcare policy and the ethical considerations surrounding permanent sex trait alteration for minors. Join us as we navigate these challenging topics and seek to understand the stakes involved for individuals and families facing these critical decisions.Read the amicus brief here.Donate to support Diana's work.Diana Lutfi, JD, MSHCM, CPHQ is a legal and bioethics scholar, healthcare professional, and advocate of patients' and providers' rights. Marked by a history of public service, Diana founded sustainable high school programs and pioneered a TEDx Youth movement in Southern California. She founded a large (100+ students) credit-bearing worldviews course at UC Berkeley. During the pandemic, Diana successfully challenged and changed Colorado Nursing Board rules, decreasing the red tape around reinstatements. Diana has avidly worked to protect patients' rights amidst healthcare policy, helped physicians write policy proposals, and most recently authored a Supreme Court amicus on behalf of the larger detransitioners community. In her professional career, Diana was a human subjects researcher, healthcare administrator, educator, and projects consultant. She has extensively investigated issues around access, autonomy, bodily integrity, and coercion in healthcare. Diana has consciously positioned herself to defend health freedom and protect healthcare providers seeking to reform our healthcare system.View my complete list of book recommendations, including those written by authors who have been guests on this show, at https://sometherapist.com/bookshop.As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links from my show notes or website. Thank you for purchases that support the show! 00:00 Start[00:02:16] Supreme Court case on gender care.[00:04:30] Access to gender-affirming care.[00:10:43] Standards of care in pediatrics.[00:12:46] Power dynamics in healthcare dissent.[00:20:45] Expanding rights and access.[00:24:01] Detransitioner community's legal advocacy.[00:26:35] Healthcare discrimination and reference ranges.[00:30:54] Testicular cancer and hormones.[00:35:54] Pediatric gender transition regulations.[00:40:51] Healthcare discrimination and exceptions.[00:47:54] Life-altering decisions in youth.[00:49:18] Autonomy in minors' healthcare decisions.[00:56:19] State prohibition on gender-affirming care.[00:57:31] Right to bodily integrity.[01:02:41] Consequences of pediatric gender-affirming care.[01:06:38] Risk factors for suicide.[01:11:08] Minor autonomy and permanent decisions.[01:17:27] Protecting individual rights through experience.[01:20:05] Future of the Skrmetti case.[01:24:17] Gender affirming care reality.ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.

My guest today is Dr. Nikki Johnson, a former pediatrician and co-director of FAIR in Medicine. We dive deep into the challenges parents face in finding trustworthy medical providers for their children and the broader implications of the current healthcare system. Dr. Nikki shares her journey through medical training and her eventual departure from clinical practice due to ethical concerns and the corporatization of medicine.We discuss the concept of perverse incentives in healthcare, particularly how insurance reimbursement structures can compromise the quality of care. Dr. Nikki highlights the shift in focus from patient-centered care to a more corporate-driven model, which often prioritizes profit over patient well-being. We also explore some lesser-known impacts of the Affordable Care Act on the medical landscape, including the rise of non-physician providers, and the challenges this poses for traditional medical practices.Throughout our conversation, we aim to empower parents to trust their instincts when it comes to their children's health and to advocate for better care. We also touch on the importance of transparency in healthcare and the need for a return to a more personal, relationship-driven approach to medicine. This episode is a call to action for parents to be informed and engaged in their children's healthcare decisions.Nicole “Dr. Nikki” M. Johnson, MD DNBPAS, has a B.S. in Biology from Case Western Reserve University and a medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Dr. Nikki earned certification in both General Pediatrics and Pediatric Critical Care Medicine. She is passionate about reforming healthcare and wishes to see medicine restored to a focus on the individual doctor-patient relationship where physicians are bound by the Hippocratic Oath, and patients have affordable evidence-based care, choice, and transparency. She works as an independent consultant with those who help her achieve her mission. Dr. Nikki has a record of advocacy and service. She is the director of FAIR In Medicine and an advisor for Affirming Reality Connected. She is the past President and a Co-founder of PHYSICIANS FOR PATIENTS and a contributing author of Free2Care’s A Physician-Led Roadmap to Patient-Centered Medical Care. Dr. Nikki also served as a Senior Fellow for Restore Childhood and a team member of Urgency of Normal. She lives in Northeast Ohio with her husband and two daughters. 00:00 Start[00:00:11] Parental responsibility in healthcare.[00:06:34] Corporate influence in healthcare.[00:10:21] Loss of patient care autonomy.[00:12:13] Healthcare system challenges and solutions.[00:16:00] Affordable Care Act implications.[00:19:34] Nursing shortage and healthcare changes.[00:24:14] ROGD Repair for Parents.[00:29:43] Medical ethics and political influence.[00:32:14] Perverse incentives in healthcare.[00:36:56] Therapy payout disparities and ethics.[00:40:36] Direct primary care transparency.[00:43:43] Direct primary care benefits.[00:49:21] Corporate infiltration in healthcare.[00:50:39] Pediatric endocrinologists and gender identity.[00:54:02] Finding the right therapist.[00:58:06] Parental instincts in healthcare.[01:01:38] Empowering parental decision-making.[01:06:55] Parental challenges in healthcare.[01:10:14] Parental advice on medical issues.[01:12:54] Parental influence on children's choices.[01:17:10] Parenting and device management.[01:21:34] Advocacy against gender ideology.ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join...

In this episode, I welcome back James Esses, a writer and advocate who has been at the forefront of discussions surrounding gender ideology and its impact on the therapeutic profession. We dive into James's journey, which began during his training as a therapist in the UK, where he raised concerns about the medicalization of children experiencing gender dysphoria. His advocacy led to a significant legal battle after he was expelled from his graduate program, a case that has since resulted in important settlements affirming the validity of gender-critical beliefs among therapists.We explore the implications of James's case for therapists in the UK and beyond, particularly regarding freedom of speech and the ethical responsibilities of mental health professionals. We discuss the troubling trend of therapists prioritizing identity politics over individual client needs, and how this shift has affected the quality of care. Additionally, we examine the concept of "lived experience" and its potential dangers when it comes to guiding treatment decisions, especially for vulnerable populations like adolescents.Throughout our conversation, we aim to uncover the challenges faced by therapists today, the impact of social media on mental health, and the importance of maintaining ethical standards in therapy. Join us as we navigate these complex issues and consider what the future holds for the counseling profession.James Esses is a writer, commentator and advocate, specializing in the impact of ideology on society. He has a particular interest in the topic of gender ideology from the perspective of safeguarding children from irreversible medicalisation. He founded the Declaration for Biological Reality, calling for significant change to public policy in this space. James brought high-profile legal action against the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP), and his case resulted in a significant statement expressly protecting therapists with gender critical beliefs. He frequently appears on television, including on GB News and TalkTV, and writes for a number of publications, including the Mail, Telegraph, Spectator, Spiked and Critic. He also writes a Substack alongside Matt Goodwin. James was previously a Criminal Barrister and spent many years specializing in crime and criminal justice in the public sector, including tackling child sexual abuse and exploitation.James will soon be launching Just Therapy. Make sure to follow or subscribe to him on your platforms of choice in order to stay informed.SubstackX @JamesEssesJames' previous episode on my podcastBooks mentioned in this episode are listed below.Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up, by Abigail ShrierView my complete list of book recommendations, including those written by authors who have been guests on this show, at https://sometherapist.com/bookshop.As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links from my show notes or website. Thank you for purchases that support the show! 00:00 Start[00:02:36] Ethical concerns in therapy training.[00:07:04] Therapist freedom of belief.[00:10:06] Trainee therapists facing pressure.[00:15:37] Purpose of therapy and risks.[00:18:47] Therapy and societal relationship norms.[00:20:27] Loneliness in modern society.[00:24:15] Sanity versus Insanity in Therapy.[00:29:23] Privilege versus oppression beliefs.[00:32:10] Wokeness and therapy dynamics.[00:36:32] Lived experience in therapy.[00:41:11] Teenage advice and mental health.[00:45:45] Power dynamics in gender identity.[00:49:51] Just therapy and advocacy.[00:52:17] Accreditation in therapy practice.[00:56:05] Ethical concerns in therapy accreditation.[01:00:03] Gender critical beliefs in therapy.[01:04:36] Online shaming and social justice.[01:09:59] Biological factors in gender dysphoria.[01:11:45] Gender dynamics in modern society.[01:16:12] Healing through daily renewal.[01:20:07] Gender crisis and its realities.ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & s...

Ryan Rogers, a graduate student in counseling psychology and author of "The Woke Mind," discusses the troubling trends in mental health education. He shares his journey through addiction and his motivations for pursuing therapy amidst a climate prioritizing activism over clinical skills. The conversation highlights the disconnect between academic learning and real-world counseling, particularly in suicide prevention and cultural competency. Ryan critiques the ideological influences overshadowing traditional therapeutic practices, calling for a return to client-centered care.

Has modern therapy become a hostile environment towards Jewish people? I sit down with Malka Shaw, a licensed clinical social worker and trauma therapist, to delve into the pressing issue of anti-Semitism and its psychological implications. Malka shares her experiences as a therapist and the challenges Jewish clients face in therapy, particularly in light of recent events that have heightened anti-Semitic sentiments. We discuss the inappropriate remarks some therapists make, which can invalidate the experiences of their Jewish clients, and how this reflects a broader trend of misunderstanding and bias within the mental health field.Malka also introduces her organization, Kesher Shalom, which aims to provide education and support for Jewish communities while addressing the cultural accommodations needed in mental health practices. We explore the concept of anti-Semitism as a form of racism, the historical context of Jews as scapegoats, and the psychological mechanisms that allow such biases to persist. Malka clarifies the true meaning of Zionism and why the rise of anti-Zionist sentiments concern her. Throughout our conversation, we question why anti-Semitism is often overlooked and how it serves as a warning sign for societal health.Malka Shaw, LCSW (licensed in NJ, NY, and Florida), is a psychotherapist and trauma expert with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. Specializing in trauma recovery using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), she has built a private practice focusing on women’s wellness, relationship dynamics, and maternal health. Malka also provides clinical supervision, and consultation, develops continuing education courses on trauma and antisemitism; and often presents at professional events. Drawing on her experience with large-scale trauma, Malka founded Kesher Shalom Projects following the devastating events of October 7th. KSP's mission is to provide education and professional development on mental health and antisemitism, critical for building resilience within Jewish communities. By helping others understand the psychology behind antisemitic propaganda and its impact on society, Kesher Shalom offers valuable insights for combating antisemitism and supporting those affected.MalkaShaw.comKesherShalom.comMalka’s next training for therapists, coming up December 2, 2024: Navigating Trauma: GUARD System Techniques for Addressing Symptoms from Antisemitism and Prolonged StressBooks mentioned in this episode are listed below. "The Madness of Crowds" by Douglas Murray: https://amzn.to/40uFjlAView my complete list of book recommendations, including those written by authors who have been guests on this show, at https://sometherapist.com/bookshop.As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links from my show notes or website. Thank you for purchases that support the show! 00:00 Start[00:01:21] Psychology of antisemitism and impact.[00:03:44] Mental health education gaps.[00:09:08] Anti-Semitism in healthcare settings.[00:11:18] Therapist validation of Jewish concerns.[00:17:36] Multi-ethnic identity of Jews.[00:19:56] Targeted hate crimes statistics.[00:24:16] Defining anti-Semitism and its nuances.[00:27:07] Jews as universal scapegoat.[00:30:22] Jewish identity and resilience.[00:33:44] Responsibilities of the chosen people.[00:37:34] Moral disengagement and accountability.[00:41:27] Moral disengagement and gaslighting.[00:48:22] Defining Zionism and its implications.[00:51:14] Right to live in our land.[00:56:00] Peaceful coexistence in the Middle East.[00:57:41] The meaning of Zionism.[01:01:49] Importance of diverse opinions.[01:06:08] Jewish culture and moral compass.[01:09:51] Cultural competency and anti-Semitism.[01:11:35] Gender crisis and care.ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to

Why is it so hard to find a trustworthy physician? Dr. Andrew Zywiec has chosen to practice medicine as a licensed tribal practitioner through the First Nation Medical Board in order to allow him the freedom to operate according to his conscience. What is his inside perspective on the moral and ethical crossroads many aspiring healers find themselves navigating in today’s politicized, money-corrupted healthcare landscape?We dive into the complexities surrounding gender dysphoria, exploring how it often intersects with trauma, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Zywiec shares his perspective on the current medical landscape, particularly the challenges parents face in finding trustworthy doctors for their trans-identified youth.We discuss the evolution of the "standard of care" in treating gender dysphoria, highlighting how it has shifted from a more holistic approach to one that prioritizes affirmation and fast-tracks medicalization without addressing underlying issues. Dr. Zywiec emphasizes the importance of both critical thinking and intuition in medicine and critiques the algorithmic nature of modern medical practices, which can lead to a lack of personalized care.We also break down the concept of “medical necessity” and how it has been manipulated within the healthcare system, particularly in relation to insurance practices. I question whether “gender affirming” practitioners are in fact committing insurance fraud.Dr. Zywiec graduated medical school in 2019 with Distinction in Research and the Research Commendation Award, then left hospital medicine in 2023 due to ethical objections to current vaccine practices as well as the pharmacological castration and surgical mutilation of children. Dr. Zywiec actively fought against COVID mandates and “gender affirming care” in minors, and is still involved in the fight against medical tyranny and censorship, working with healthcare professionals nationwide and leaders in both the Ohio and Michigan House of Representatives. Dr. Zywiec is active in pro-life advocacy, and cofounded Doctors Against Gender Affirming Care with Dr. Somil Viradia. If you are a doctor please sign their petition. Follow Dr. Zywiec on X @AndrewZywiecMD. Visit his website at ZywiecAndPorter.com.Books mentioned in this episode:Turtles All The Way Down: Vaccine Science and Myth, by Zoey O’Toole and Mary HollandView my complete list of book recommendations, including those written by authors who have been guests on this show, at https://sometherapist.com/bookshop.As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links from my show notes or website. Thank you for purchases that support the show! 00:00 Start[00:00:10] Trauma response in gender dysphoria.[00:05:20] Freedom in medical practice.[00:08:37] Sick care model profit motives.[00:12:20] Standard of care in medicine.[00:16:21] Disconnect from critical thinking.[00:20:42] Surgical methods for mental illness.[00:21:47] Chest Dysphoria Rating Scale.[00:26:48] Insurance fraud in therapy.[00:30:23] Tribal practitioner licensing explained.[00:33:18] Anti-system doctors in medicine.[00:35:42] Vaccine opinions and polarization.[00:39:12] Vaccine injury and immune response.[00:45:14] Vaccine safety concerns.[00:48:46] Fragile early weeks of life.[00:52:15] World without vaccines health benefits.[00:53:23] Handwashing reduces infectious diseases.[00:58:50] COVID response and civil liberties.[01:01:22] Vaccine shedding and its effects.[01:06:49] Long COVID mechanisms discussed.[01:10:02] Long COVID and vaccine injury.[01:11:16] Chronic illnesses post-COVID.[01:15:19] Biological basis of gender dysphoria.[01:18:39] Social contagion and mental health.[01:22:27] Endocrine disruption in young men.[01:25:31] Medication withdrawal effects on women.[01:30:41] Finding a trustworthy doctor.[01:32:41] Empowering patients in health care.ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI....

Dr. Jillian Spencer, a child and adolescent psychiatrist from Brisbane, raises critical concerns about gender-affirming care for youth. She discusses her journey as a whistleblower after facing suspension for questioning clinic practices. Delving into psychological dynamics, Jillian analyzes the risks of fast-tracking vulnerable children to gender clinics. She highlights the need for a return to psychodynamic principles in psychiatry and critiques the simplification of gender identity in current therapeutic practices, emphasizing potential long-term consequences.

In this episode, I sit down with Warren Smith, a passionate educator and critical thinker, who gained viral attention for his thought-provoking dialogue in which he used Socratic dialogue to question a student’s belief that “J.K. Rowling is transphobic.” We dive deep into the importance of teaching critical thinking skills in today's educational landscape, where echo chambers and social media often stifle independent thought. How can we encourage students to think for themselves amidst a flood of content and opinions?Warren shares his experiences as a multimedia teacher, revealing the innovative ways he helps students become comfortable on camera and articulate their thoughts. But what happens when the very framework of education is challenged by administrative pressures and societal expectations? We explore the obstacles he faced in fostering a culture of open dialogue and critical inquiry.As we discuss the implications of his viral video, Warren reflects on the repercussions it had on his career. Did he anticipate the fallout, and how did it change his teaching environment? We also touch on the broader cultural shifts in education and the challenges of navigating a landscape that often prioritizes conformity over creativity. What does the future hold for educators who dare to challenge the status quo? Warren also turns the tables and interviews me, offering me an opportunity to articulate how I built my podcast, how my thoughts on gender ideology have taken shape over the past several years, and where my attitude toward the mental health profession currently stands.Warren Smith is the founder of the Secret Scholars on YouTube. He is a volunteer firefighter, teacher and critical thinker.  00:00 Start[00:01:16] Teaching critical thinking skills.[00:05:30] Critical thinking in education.[00:10:45] Workplace culture and leadership changes.[00:13:40] Teaching critical thinking challenges.[00:18:35] Movie industry critical thinking challenges.[00:21:00] Democratization of content creation.[00:24:31] Podcasting and audience engagement.[00:29:17] Gender critical perspectives and challenges.[00:30:34] Gender identity in therapy settings.[00:35:58] Detransitioners and their experiences.[00:40:43] ROGD Repair course for parents.[00:42:23] Gender identity and its implications.[00:46:39] Trans identity and cultural change.[00:50:15] Therapy's purpose and expectations.[00:56:39] Defining mental health challenges.[00:58:30] Social contagion and mental health.[01:02:20] Identity and emotional attachment.ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.COZYEARTH: Visit CozyEarth.com/sometherapist and use code SOMETHERAPIST for 40% off their selection of bedding, towels, skincare and other cozy home items.TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST. COZYEARTH: Visit CozyEarth.com/sometherapist and use code SOMETHERAPIST for 40% off their selection of bedding, towels, skincare and other cozy home items.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Have you ever wondered why far left Gen Z activists idealize foreign cultures halfway across the planet while diminishing their own, to the point of holding beliefs that seem paradoxical or even delusional? Today’s brilliant guest, Maral Salmassi, helps us explore the complex dynamics of the "Queers for Palestine" movement and the sadomasochistic interpersonal dynamics that can emerge within woke culture.Maral draws on the psychological frameworks of Erich Fromm to unpack the internal conflicts that fuel these behaviors. Are we witnessing a projection of powerlessness that leads to sadistic control over dissenting voices? As we navigate these intricate themes, we also touch on the implications of cluster B personality traits in social movements. In order to better understand ideologically captured youth, what do mature thinkers need to know about psychological phenomena such as splitting, projection, idealization and devaluation, and the Karpman Drama Triangle of victim, rescuer and persecutor? What role does social media play in amplifying these dynamics, and how does it contribute to identity fragmentation among vulnerable individuals?Join us as we dissect the paradoxes of ideological purity and the logical fallacies that can arise in the pursuit of social justice. Tune in to discover Maral's insights and my reflections on these pressing questions that resonate deeply in today's cultural landscape. Today’s format deviates from the norm as Maral reads a thoughtfully scripted monologue prepared exclusively for my listeners, and I respond with my asynchronous reflections.Maral Salmassi was born in Tehran, Iran, and spent her early years in Iran, Jordan, and Israel, where her father was a diplomat under the Shah. Her mother, a literature teacher, nurtured her appreciation for culture and the arts. Following the fall of the Shah and the outbreak of the Iran-Iraq war, her family fled Iran in 1986, settling in Germany. Salmassi pursued an education in Media Art in Cologne, which provided a foundation for her future endeavors. She is also a self-taught music producer and sound engineer. Since 1997, she has shaped culture as an artist, producer, and entrepreneur, initially in Cologne and later in Berlin. Her work is influenced by her diverse cultural background and a strong interest in sociopolitics and psychology. She also spent a brief period living in France, contributing to her multicultural perspective.Books mentioned in this episode:The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness by Erich FrommEscape from Freedom by Erich FrommThe Coddling of the American Mind by Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff00:00 Start[00:00:10] Ideological purity in woke culture.[00:05:06] Sadomasochism in Queers for Palestine.[00:08:07] Polarizing content and identity.[00:12:20] Gameable heuristics in society.[00:17:34] Victim mentality and self-interest.[00:20:10] Reaction formation and its implications.[00:24:46] Woke beliefs and self-interest.[00:27:25] Sadomasochism and entitlement dynamics.ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Are you concerned about an adolescent or young adult with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria? Join at ROGDrepair.com and get instant access to over 100 lessons designed to equip you with the psychological insights and communication tools you need to get through to your kid. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD. ★ Support th...

In this episode, I have the privilege of speaking with Vaishnavi Sundar, a self-taught filmmaker and advocate for women's rights, about her groundbreaking documentary, Behind the Looking Glass. This film delves into the often-overlooked experiences of women whose male partners “transition,” shedding light on the emotional turmoil and coercive control they face. Why is it that these women, often silenced and marginalized, feel compelled to redefine their identities in the shadow of their partners?Vaishnavi shares powerful insights into the dynamics of narcissism and gaslighting that permeate these relationships. How do societal expectations and gender ideology contribute to the erasure of these women's voices? As we explore the metaphor of the "looking glass," we uncover the disturbing reality of men who, in their quest for self-identity, leave their partners feeling like mere ghosts of their former selves.What happens when these women finally muster the courage to leave? What challenges do they face in reclaiming their autonomy and identity? Join us as we navigate these complex questions and hear the poignant stories of resilience and hope from those who have endured this unique form of domestic violence. You won't want to miss this eye-opening conversation that challenges the narratives surrounding gender identity and the often-unseen victims of this movement.Watch Behind the Looking Glass on YouTube.Vaishnavi Sundar is a writer and a self-taught filmmaker from Chennai, India. Through her films, she advocates for the rights of women and girls worldwide. She founded Lime Soda Films about a decade ago with the aim of highlighting themes of social justice, women’s empowerment and education. She is the Founder of Women Making Films (WMF) – a platform for female filmmakers to collaborate and create works of art, and has the privilege to host the work of members from more than 20 countries. Follow her on X @Vaishax. 00:00 Start[00:02:08] Trans widows and their experiences.[00:04:03] Narcissism and gender ideology.[00:09:13] Women's experiences in relationships.[00:12:19] Marital struggles and gender ideology.[00:18:59] Women's voices in transitions.[00:20:25] Questions about gender identity.[00:24:17] Prenuptial agreements and women's rights.[00:30:14] Emotional boundaries in relationships.[00:32:25] Disgust in gender identity changes.[00:39:08] Protective instinct in abuse situations.[00:42:57] Defining identity beyond trauma.[00:46:16] Supporting trans widows and families.[00:51:46] Support for women in distress.[00:52:17] Reassurance for women in abuse.[00:55:48] Radical love and understanding.[01:01:44] Transitioning and identity complexities.[01:04:03] Identity and self-perception struggles.[01:09:08] Creative career shift in India.[01:11:23] Filmmaking as a personal outlet.[01:17:21] Workplace sexual harassment in India.[01:19:35] Gender ideology and women's safety.[01:24:09] Pornography's impact on society.[01:29:58] Women's struggles in a multicultural society.[01:31:20] Domestic violence and helplessness.[01:35:54] Women's rights in rural India.[01:39:50] Anger as creative fuel.[01:43:59] Compassion and anger connection.ROGD REPAIR Course + Community for Parents is available now! Join at ROGDrepair.com and start using the tools immediately. Use code SOMETHERAPIST2024 to take 50% off your first month.TALK TO ME: book a discovery call.LOCALS: Ask questions of me & guests; get early access to new episodes + exclusive content. Join my community.SUPPORT THE SHOW: subscribe, like, comment, & share or donate.EIGHTSLEEP: Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST.ORGANIFI: Take 20% off Organifi with code SOMETHERAPIST.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration. SHOW NOTES & transcript with help from SwellAI.MUSIC: Thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude & permission.PRODUCTION: Looking for your own podcast producer? Visit PodsByNick.com and mention my podcast for 20% off your initial services. To support this show, please leave a rating & review on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment & share via my YouTube channel. Or recommend this to a friend!Learn more about Do No Harm.Take $200 off your EightSleep Pod Pro Cover with code SOMETHERAPIST at EightSleep.com.Take 20% off all superfood beverages with code SOMETHERAPIST at Organifi.Check out my shop for book recommendations + wellness products.Show notes & transcript provided with the help of SwellAI.Special thanks to Joey Pecoraro for our theme song, “Half Awake,” used with gratitude and permission.Watch NO WAY BACK: The Reality of Gender-Affirming Care (our medical ethics documentary, formerly known as Affirmation Generation). Stream the film or purchase a DVD. Use code SOMETHERAPIST to take 20% off your order. Follow us on X @2022affirmation or Instagram at @affirmationgeneration.Have a question for me? Looking to go deeper and discuss these ideas with other listeners? Join my Locals community! Members get to ask questions I will respond to in exclusive, members-only livestreams, post questions for upcoming guests to answer, plus other perks TBD.