Matt and Chris dip their toes into the fetid, guru-infested swamp surrounding the 2024 U.S. election. Straining to see what lurks in the murky depths, they encounter dark shapes, including Eric Weinstein pledging his services to whoever wins (or will give him a call), Joe Rogan conspiracy hypothesizing with Donald Trump, the Free Press hosting a truly heterodox election party, Michael Moynihan pulling no punches, and finally, Jordan Peterson’s shockingly sycophantic psychological assessment of Donald Trump and his cohort.Join Chris and Matt as they navigate the election discourse swamp and the ever-unsettling convergence of internet personalities and political power, examining how these online figures function like the courtiers of old—gathering around their would-be kings, flattering them with pseudo-profound or sycophantic praise, and vying to secure their place in the new order.All very cheerful stuff, we’re sure you’ll agree!LinksA Psychological Analysis of Trump’s Personality by Dr. Jordan B. Peterson | EP 492Professor Dave Explains: The Problem With Sabine HossenfelderMatt Johnson's article on Joe Rogan: A Conspiracist for the Trump EraJoe Rogan Experience #2219 - Donald TrumpMoynihan on Triggernometry: The Most Important Election in History - Michael MoynihanQAnon Anonymous: Episode 211: Tulsi Gabbard P1 (The Cult) feat Mike Prysner

Andrew Gold, a YouTuber known for exploring ancient civilizations, shares intriguing insights on YouTube algorithms and audience capture. He highlights the tension between creating compelling content and catering to viewership demands. The conversation dives into how these factors influence public discourse and the risks of compromising quality for virality. The hosts also discuss American cultural quirks, ethical responsibilities in podcasting, and the challenges of navigating controversy in today’s media landscape.

Dive into a humorous review of Richard Dawkins' iconic work, exploring its impact on understanding evolution decades later. The hosts tackle the controversies it sparked, alongside criticisms from notable figures. They discuss the balance between our genetic makeup and cultural influences, examining how genes shape behavior, including altruism in species like ants. From playful analogies with local wildlife to insights on political discourse, this lively conversation reveals the continued relevance of Dawkins' ideas in today’s cultural landscape.

Flint Dibble, a Cardiff University archaeologist and social media debater, dives into the world of pseudo-archaeology. He discusses the allure of myths like Atlantis and the challenges of debunking them in an age rife with misinformation—especially as Graham Hancock stirs the pot with new media. Dibble shares his experiences with public engagement, the backlash from online critics, and the importance of academics participating in public discourse. He also humorously acknowledges his new theory about ancient seaweed submarines, showcasing the creativity in the field.

Jordan Peterson, a renowned psychologist and author, teams up with John Vervaeke, a cognitive scientist from the University of Toronto, to delve into the intricacies of sense-making and the looming 'Meaning Crisis.' They explore the sacred art of conversation, emphasizing dialogue's transformative power. The pair discuss the intersections of power, beauty, and truth while critiquing commercial disruptions in meaningful discourse. Together, they reflect on personal journeys, intertwining faith and philosophy, and the role of transformative dialogues in fostering community.

Dive into the wild world of guru punditry as the hosts dissect the theatrical 'Rescue the Republic' event. They explore Eric Weinstein's insights on political speeches and scrutinize Megyn Kelly's interview by Michael Moynihan. There's a fascinating debate on the unholy alliance among modern conspiratorial figures and a discussion on the power of language in shaping political narrative. The symbolism of the phoenix and other ancient myths are tied to today's challenges, emphasizing the need for unity and genuine solutions.

Dive into the whimsical world of Gurometry, a quirky method for quantifying the essence of gurus like Dr. K. The discussion touches on authority in psychology and the dubious tactics of self-help figures, revealing ethical dilemmas in the commercialization of mental health. Explore the fine line between charisma and moral grandstanding while also tackling the murky ethics of the pharmaceutical industry. The hosts balance humor with critical insights, inviting listeners to ponder the true nature of those they follow.

This intriguing conversation dives into the dark side of humor and its links to online trolling and personality traits. The hosts analyze a study revealing the psychological motivations behind these behaviors and the concept of the dark tetrad. They explore the murky waters of academic publishing, discussing predatory journals and the influences of personality on research choices. With a mix of playful banter, shocking quizzes, and insights into social science research, this discussion uncovers the complexities of human behavior in a humorous context.

Darryl Cooper, known for his provocative views on history, and Dave Smith, a libertarian commentator, dive into the controversies ignited by Cooper's interview with Tucker Carlson. They challenge established narratives about WWII, especially regarding Winston Churchill's role, and dissect the emotional fallout from such claims. The conversation goes on to examine the media's influence on political discourse and the ethics of historical representation. The nuanced dialogue touches on immigration issues in Springfield, shedding light on the complexities of community integration.

Lex Fridman, a renowned podcaster known for his in-depth interviews, leads a lively discussion featuring controversial figures like Trump and Kamala Harris. They dive into the murky waters of Russian propaganda and influencer scandals, emphasizing the need for transparency in funding within media. The conversation also critiques Lex's interview style with Trump, calling for deeper dialogues that challenge mainstream narratives. Additionally, they explore authenticity in public discourse, reflecting on the personal and political implications of self-promotion and societal skepticism.