Conspirituality
Derek Beres, Matthew Remski, Julian Walker
Dismantling New Age cults, wellness grifters, and conspiracy-mad yogis. At best, the conspirituality movement attacks public health efforts in times of crisis. At worst, it fronts and recruits for the fever-dream of QAnon. As the alt-right and New Age horseshoe toward each other in a blur of disinformation, clear discourse, and good intentions get smothered. Charismatic influencers exploit their followers by co-opting conspiracy theories on a spectrum of intensity ranging from vaccines to child trafficking. In the process, spiritual beliefs that have nurtured creativity and meaning are transforming into memes of a quickly-globalizing paranoia. Conspirituality Podcast attempts to bring understanding to this landscape. A journalist, a cult researcher, and a philosophical skeptic discuss the stories, cognitive dissonances, and cultic dynamics tearing through the yoga, wellness, and new spirituality worlds. Mainstream outlets have noticed the problem. We crowd-source, research, analyze, and dream answers to it.
Episodes
Mentioned books
20 snips
Jan 17, 2026 • 24min
MAHA’s Selective Skepticism
Whole milk is back on the menu as the tide turns against low-fat options! Derek dives into the controversial new dietary guidelines, highlighting the industrial ties of advisory authors. He examines the benefits of full-fat versus low-fat milk and the science behind saturated fat intake. The discussion explores misplaced fears about seed oils and critiques the characterization of processed foods. With a critical lens, Derek warns against selective skepticism in dietary recommendations and how they can be shaped by activist agendas.
150 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 1h 6min
291: My Chinese Buddhist Israeli AI Guru
A monk with millions of Instagram followers shares profound yet gentle life lessons. The buzz around AI-generated gurus, like Yang Mun, unveils connections to Israeli tech entrepreneurs. Health influencers are pushing untested supplements through bizarre marketing tactics. The rise of AI culture raises ethical questions about authenticity and traditional teachings. Reflection on the Jan 6th anniversary reveals propaganda tactics reshaping narratives, while younger audiences develop a keen skepticism towards AI content and its depth.
4 snips
Jan 12, 2026 • 4min
Bonus Sample: Overwelled
Dive into a whirlwind of wellness trends from 2026! The episode critiques Andrew Huberman's unexpected Goop crossover and pokes fun at Mel Robbins' launch of protein shots, highlighting influencer antics that create protein 'problems.' It also addresses the reduced childhood vaccine recommendations from health officials, alongside concerns raised by experts. With a nod to MAHA's pseudoscience, the discussion reveals the potentially harmful trends shaping health narratives. This chaotic week in wellness leaves heads spinning!
20 snips
Jan 10, 2026 • 22min
Brief: Censorship Industrial Complex
The discussion kicks off with Marco Rubio's press release targeting individuals in the global censorship industrial complex. Insightful analysis follows on the implications of visa restrictions and the role of figures like Imran Ahmed in combating misinformation. Critics of censorship rhetoric face scrutiny, while the hosts examine the intersection of misinformation regulation and free speech. The response from anti-vax influencers adds an interesting twist, as legal contexts are debated. Hope emerges for fair treatment as the hosts reflect on personal insights.
24 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 1h 7min
290: Trump Derangement Science
Discover the intriguing manipulation of science by political figures, revealing how RFK Jr. attempts to legitimize dubious claims. Dive into a poetic exploration of biohacking by Bryan Johnson, with critiques on privilege and the interplay between science and artistry. The discussion extends to the controversial hepatitis B study funded by the CDC and its ethical implications. Meanwhile, Arizona's political landscape heats up with a proposed bill analyzing 'Trump Derangement Syndrome,' stirring debates on the politicization of mental health and the historical context of such diagnoses.
Jan 5, 2026 • 6min
Bonus Sample: What My Late Mom Would Have Thought About Jordan Peterson
Reflecting on his mother’s life, Matthew shares how her values shaped his views on Jordan Peterson. He discusses the delicate balance between toughness and love, arguing that strength shouldn't veer into cruelty. His insights are enriched by a personal narrative on hospice care, revealing how it blends clinical support with intimacy. This connection serves as a lens to explore how conspirituality manipulates narratives of care and order in society.
Jan 3, 2026 • 36min
Brief: Class Wars on Christmas
Explore the provocative 'Grinch prank' video trend and the deeper issues of parental behavior and societal conflicts around Christmas. Discover the political undertones of the nativity and how ancient folklore figures like Krampus serve as symbols of rebellion. Delve into 19th-century literary giants and their reflections on urban poverty, alongside the poignant Christmas Truce of 1914 that defied class divisions. Ultimately, uncover how the holiday has always been a battleground over care and resources, not a mere 'war on Christmas.'
12 snips
Jan 1, 2026 • 50min
289: Big Wellness’s Nicotine Gambit [feat Mallory DeMille]
Mallory DeMille, a wellness journalist, returns to delve into the latest buzz around nicotine as a wellness trend. She explores how influencers are promoting nicotine for energy and even health benefits, despite serious health risks. The discussion touches on the origins of this craze, including chiropractor Brian Artis's controversial claims, and examines the boundary between potential uses and addiction. The conversation also highlights alarming trends, such as using nicotine for autism treatment, raising critical concerns about safety and misinformation.
Dec 29, 2025 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Alien Abduction Mack Daddy
Delve into the intriguing world of alien abduction with Pulitzer Prize-winning psychiatrist John E. Mack. Explore his controversial media appearances, including his notable time on Oprah, and the sensationalized claims surrounding alien-human hybrids. Uncover how hypnosis was used to recover repressed memories that fueled societal hysteria. Learn about the cultural impact of this narrative, influencing shows like The X-Files and modern conspiracy theories. Mack's experiences with psychedelics and breathwork further challenge traditional scientific beliefs.
59 snips
Dec 27, 2025 • 36min
Brief: Nicki Minaj Goes MAGA
A record attendance at AmFest 2025 reveals the infighting within Turning Point USA. Hosts examine the rise of Christian nationalism in their messaging strategies. Nicki Minaj's awkward appearance raises eyebrows as she awkwardly attempts to connect with the audience. JD Vance's controversial appeals to white identity generate discussion on internal coalition tensions. The hosts critique the right's performance of victimhood while holding power and delve into the contradictions within emerging wellness politics linked to nationalism.
