Decoding the Gurus
Christopher Kavanagh and Matthew Browne
An exiled Northern Irish anthropologist and a hitchhiking Australian psychologist take a close look at the contemporary crop of 'secular gurus', iconoclasts, and other exiles from the mainstream, offering their own brands of unique takes and special insights.
Leveraging two of the most diverse accents in modern podcasting, Chris and Matt dig deep into the claims, peek behind the psychological curtains, and try to figure out once and for all... What's it all About?
Join us, as we try to puzzle our way through and talk some smart-sounding smack about the intellectual giants of our age, from Jordan Peterson to Robin DiAngelo. Are they revolutionary thinkers or just grifters with delusions of grandeur?
Join us and let's find out!
Leveraging two of the most diverse accents in modern podcasting, Chris and Matt dig deep into the claims, peek behind the psychological curtains, and try to figure out once and for all... What's it all About?
Join us, as we try to puzzle our way through and talk some smart-sounding smack about the intellectual giants of our age, from Jordan Peterson to Robin DiAngelo. Are they revolutionary thinkers or just grifters with delusions of grandeur?
Join us and let's find out!
Episodes
Mentioned books
24 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 49min
Supplementary Material 34: Giants, Grifters, and Google Eyed Loons
Dive into a whirlwind of ideologies as striking IQ claims clash with the realities of intelligence. Explore how antisemitism is gaining traction in mainstream discourse while shocking narratives around Ghislaine Maxwell and Epstein resurface. The conversation delves into opportunism in politics and the complexities of surprising alliances between left and right figures. With humor and insight, it highlights the evolving nature of debates amid a chaotic digital landscape, drawing a stark comparison with historical media influences.
47 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 3h 41min
A Return to Gary World
Gary Stevenson, a former trader and economics commentator, dives into wealth inequality and his rise to YouTube fame. He oscillates between being a self-effacing activist and a charismatic guru, drawing praise and skepticism alike. The conversation tackles the complexities of economic measures, critiques of elite narratives, and the urgent need for nuanced discussions on societal disparities. Gary emphasizes that growing inequality poses risks to democracy and highlights the challenges of simplifying such a complex issue. His call for awareness raises eyebrows on his guru-like packaging of these vital messages.
29 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 59min
Mini Decoding: Sabine's Contrarian Outrage- How Dare You Criticise Eric!
Sabine Hossenfelder, a theoretical physicist and popular YouTuber known for her critical stance on mainstream physics, defends Eric Weinstein against his critics. She argues that he poses a significant challenge to the physics establishment and champions his Theory of Everything as an alternative to string theory, claiming it’s less wasteful. The discussion dives into the online outrage surrounding these views and questions whether Sabine is a genuine rebel or simply another contrarian seeking attention in a polarized scientific landscape.
24 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 40min
Supplementary Material 33: Weinstein Enigmas, The Epstein Conspiracies, and Dwarves punching ducks
In this lively discussion, the hosts dive into the bizarre world of conspiracy theories, tackling everything from Epstein's shadowy connections to the peculiarities of a fantasy game where dwarves punch ducks. They throw in critiques of AI biases impacting our social narratives and examine the absurdity of modern podcasting. With a cast of colorful commentators, the conversation rampages through topics like Weinstein enigmas and the eccentricities of recent political commentary, all wrapped in sharp humor and stimulating debate.
15 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 29min
Required Readings: Buddhism - A Journey Through History
Dive into the rich history of Buddhism as the hosts explore Donald S. Lopez Jr.'s book. Discover intriguing aspects like the Buddha's retractable penis and remarkably long tongue! Explore the cultural misunderstandings in Western perceptions of Buddhism. The discussion also tackles the adaptive nature of Buddhist practices and their evolution through cultural imitation. From crucial textual traditions to the surprising events in Buddhist history, this journey offers a fresh perspective on a complex and dynamic religion.
20 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 7min
Mind, Culture & Visual Illusions: Dorsa Amir and Chaz Firestone on Visual Illusions
Join Dorsa Amir, an assistant professor at Duke University focusing on cognitive development, and Chaz Firestone, an associate professor at Johns Hopkins, as they delve into the fascinating realm of visual perception. They challenge the WEIRD framework in psychology, revealing how cultural backgrounds can alter our understanding of illusions like the Müller-Lyer. They also discuss the intersection of psychology and anthropology, the implications of congenital cataracts on vision, and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling complex cognitive questions.
11 snips
Jun 28, 2025 • 37min
Supplementary Material 32: A Shower of Bastards
Dive into the murky waters of guru culture as the speakers dissect the absurdities of various internet personalities. From the bizarre twists of the Liver King controversy to the eccentric rants of Chris Langan, they cover it all. The discussion includes the troubling implications of online rivalries and the superficiality of intellectualism in media. They also explore the contradictions within celebrity endorsements, questioning the integrity of public figures who change their stances for profit. Expect humor, critique, and a few surprising revelations!
14 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 3h 30min
Matthew McConaughey: Selling is Love!
Matthew McConaughey, Academy Award-winning actor and author of 'Green Lights', dives into the self-help realm with passion. He shares insights on dismantling egos and uncovering hidden strengths to navigate life’s challenges. The dialogue explores the authenticity of motivational speaking and the risks of tribalism, while interweaving personal anecdotes that emphasize vulnerability and self-reflection. Listeners are encouraged to pursue growth through meaningful connections and to consider personal truths in their journey towards self-actualization.
27 snips
Jun 14, 2025 • 1h 3min
Decoding Academia 33: The Great Müller-Lyer Debate from Fish Tanks to Eye Operations *Patreon Preview*
Dive into a lively debate over the Müller-Lyer illusion, as scholars challenge cultural assumptions in psychological research. Discover how guppy fish and bearded lizards perceive visual stimuli, shedding light on the intersection of biology and culture. The playful banter sets the stage for serious discussions about the limitations of prevailing psychological theories. Expect to navigate the intricacies of cross-cultural research, all while laughing at technical mishaps and celebrating groundbreaking methodologies in academia!
17 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 46min
Supplementary Material 31: Aquatic Nightmares, Strategic Obliviousness, & Race Realists
Dive into bizarre tales of aquarium trauma and vivid dreams that blend humor with emotion! Explore the world of vaccine skepticism and its polarizing effects on public health narratives. Delve into the controversial lab leak theory and how media shapes perceptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Engage in a lively discussion on the influences of figures like Trump and Musk, questioning their roles in cultural and political shifts. This episode tackles misinformation and the complexities of meaningful discourse like never before!
