Conspirituality

Mallory DeMille, a correspondent investigating wellness trends and alternative medicine, unpacks the dangerous misconceptions surrounding cancer treatments. She discusses the allure of wellness influencers peddling quick fixes like Kangen water, which oversimplify a complex disease. The conversation critiques the commercialization of health products and the ethical dilemmas in multi-level marketing. DeMille emphasizes the risks of misinformation, urging critical thinking and informed choices when navigating treatments, especially for vulnerable patients.

The podcast delves into the surprising shift of Generation X from a relatively moderate stance to becoming a cornerstone of Trumpism. It examines the evolving political landscape and factors that influenced this transformation. With reflections on their 80s upbringing, listeners explore the complexity of Gen X identity amidst modern politics. The discussion also questions whether labeling Gen X as 'Trumpers' oversimplifies their diverse experiences and beliefs.

The podcast dives into the unusual White House Correspondents’ Dinner, highlighting a journalist’s apology for the media's failures. It contrasts this with a new parallel event by Substack, raising questions about the rising 'new media order.' The discussion touches on the complexities of defining independent journalism amidst the influence of financial interests. Additionally, a comedic parody offers sharp critiques of the Trump era, blending humor with poignant commentary on press freedoms and public trust in media.

Bruce Van Dieten, a retired activist advocating for public spaces, and Ann-Elizabeth Samson, a futures thinking expert and open water swimmer, delve into the complexities surrounding Ontario Place. They discuss the privatization of cherished public spaces by the Therme Spa company, raising concerns about accessibility, environmental impact, and the commercialization of wellness. The conversation highlights the historical evolution of Ontario Place, critiques the government’s handling of public welfare, and emphasizes the need for community engagement in urban planning.

In a riveting conversation, a historian delves into the complexities of discussing fascism with young people. They explore how radical ideologies seamlessly infiltrate pop culture and gaming, appealing to youth. Strategies for engaging children in meaningful political dialogue take center stage, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and respectful communication. The discussion also addresses the fine line between debunking extremist ideas and fostering trust within families grappling with radical beliefs.

Historian Craig Johnson, an expert on the radical right and host of Fifteen Minutes of Fascism, dives deep into how fascism appeals to young men. He discusses the constructed nature of masculinity, the phenomenon of irony poisoning, and innovative strategies to counteract these dangerous ideologies. Johnson emphasizes the vital role of parents in guiding conversations about fascism, equipping young people to resist extremist influences. Their engaging dialogue offers essential insights for educators and concerned family members alike.

The podcast dives into RFK Jr.'s controversial stance on vaccine mandates and its appeal to certain voter groups. It scrutinizes how anti-Semitism is framed as a public health crisis and the role of the MMR vaccine in this narrative. Tensions rise between Candace Owens and Rabbi Shmuley Boteach over free speech and Palestine. Internal struggles within the Maha movement reflect paranoia and conspiracy, particularly regarding public health. The discussion questions moral contradictions in political alliances and the influence of sensationalism in modern media.

The podcast dives into a wild tale where a young musician, touted as the chosen one by aliens, is urged to build a UFO embassy for humanity's future. The narrative unfolds with bizarre teachings of sex meditation and DNA cloning, all set against a backdrop of 1970s free love and a commune life. Despite grand promises, no embassy or cloned babies materialized, yet the protagonist thrived, gathering followers worldwide. It raises eyebrows about human cloning's ethics and sparks a reflection on spiritual beliefs and their impact on society.

When cultural and psychological anthropologist Katie Rose Hejtmanek set out to study Crossfit, she knew she had to throw herself into it fully. For seven years, she traveled to “boxes” around the world while committing herself to her local Brooklyn box. What she uncovered was a rabid fan base that deeply values community and a business model that offers a refreshing response to unfettered capitalism—as well as the misogyny, racism, and militarized Christian themes that inform this beloved and despised fitness regimen. She joins Derek to discuss her new book, The Cult of CrossFit: Christianity and the American Exercise Phenomenon.Show NotesThe Cult of CrossFit: Christianity and the American Exercise Phenomenon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation highlights the concept of abundance and its impact on governance and social systems. Key topics include the challenges faced by Democrat-led regions and the urgent need for transformative political visions. The discussion critiques misconceptions around homelessness, emphasizing real causes such as housing crises. Local journalism's role in community engagement is explored, alongside the complexities of housing affordability in urban centers. The podcast also analyzes capitalism's limitations and the drive for shared economic prosperity.