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
13 snips
Nov 30, 2024 • 45min
Brief: The $100M Free Press
Peter Thiel, the entrepreneur behind PayPal, joins Bari Weiss to delve into the complexities of media independence. They challenge the Free Press's claims of impartiality against a backdrop of substantial funding from right-leaning individuals. The conversation navigates the ethics of financial influence on journalism, Thiel's perspective on political dynamics during the 2020 Democratic primaries, and the tension between healthy skepticism and conspiracy theories. They also discuss the need for scientific literacy amidst rising dogmatism in modern science.
32 snips
Nov 28, 2024 • 1h 9min
234: Trump’s Conspiracist Cabinet
The discussion dives into Trump’s lightning-fast cabinet appointments, highlighting the bizarre mix of pro-wrestling executives, anti-vax advocates, and controversial figures. It raises alarm over their qualifications and the potential impact on public health and education policies. The connection between conspiracy theories, political shifts, and the MAGA movement is scrutinized, alongside the entertaining intersections of wrestling and governance. Prepare for a thought-provoking analysis wrapped in a layer of wit and humor!
Nov 26, 2024 • 19min
Relief Project #4: Rob Schenck
Rob Schenck, author of "Costly Grace" and former anti-abortion activist, shares his remarkable journey of de-radicalization and personal recovery. He discusses the importance of hope and resilience in confronting rising autocracy, drawing inspiration from the legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Schenck emphasizes the need for compassionate dialogue to combat misinformation and rebuild community trust. He also addresses how to guide children through their climate fears, highlighting the importance of validating their concerns and encouraging collaborative action.
Nov 25, 2024 • 6min
Bonus Sample: The UFOs Are Being Censored!
Dive into the riveting circus of a congressional hearing where the climate denialist spills the beans on government UFO cover-ups. Get ready for a wild ride with claims of reverse-engineered UFOs and alien 'biologics' being tossed around without a shred of evidence. Lawmakers channel their inner conspiracy theorists with nods to wild History Channel tales, blending political theater with sensationalism. Meanwhile, the tension between government transparency and censorship takes center stage, leaving listeners questioning what’s really lurking in the skies.
Nov 23, 2024 • 38min
Brief: How to Fire a Billionaire
Jonathan Milne and Mike Wesley-Smith, investigative journalists from Newsroom Pro, delve into the dramatic fall of AG1's founder, Chris Ashenden, after uncovering his shady past. Their extensive research reveals how a decades-old real estate scam led to his resignation and the impact of influencer culture in wellness. They discuss the complexities of accountability in a billionaire-driven world and showcase the importance of journalism in maintaining integrity against societal confusion, all while sharing their adventurous investigation in Colombia.
Nov 21, 2024 • 1h 14min
233: DC’s Catholic Power Center (w/Gareth Gore)
Gareth Gore, financial journalist and author of "Opus," sheds light on the secretive Catholic organization Opus Dei. The discussion dives into its controversial beginnings and disturbing practices, including recruitment via deception and manipulative tactics. Gore details its historical ties to authoritarian regimes and presents alarming revelations about scandals like child abuse and human trafficking. The conversation also reveals Opus Dei’s influential presence in U.S. politics and its complex relationship with power, faith, and ethics.
Nov 18, 2024 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Thinking About "Holism"
Explore a personal journey that dives into the complexities of health and emotional challenges. Hear reflections on the overwhelming nature of current events, including the poignant loss of a friend's dog. Gain insights into the intersection of health, science, and broader societal issues like Christian nationalism. This narrative reveals a sincere commitment to vital discussions in today’s healthcare landscape.
Nov 16, 2024 • 18min
Brief: Post-Election Online Survivor Group Dynamics
The discussion dives into the online chaos post-election, drawing fascinating parallels with survivor groups. It highlights how solidarity can morph into toxicity, fueled by privilege and moral outrage. The concept of the 'second arrow' is explored, differentiating initial trauma from damaging ruminations. There's a keen analysis of the complexity in community support and the importance of recognizing diverse backgrounds. The speakers also address when it's wise to disconnect from the digital noise to protect personal well-being.
17 snips
Nov 14, 2024 • 1h 7min
232: Gaslighting The Election
Explore the evolution of political narratives and media manipulation, particularly focusing on the rise of alternative news outlets. Discover how disinformation thrives in a polarized environment, particularly around heated topics like transgender rights and election integrity. The discussion highlights the stark differences in political communication styles between figures like Trump and Sanders, while advocating for clearer dialogue about political ideologies. Finally, it critiques the influence of wealthy investors on media portrayals of democracy.
Nov 11, 2024 • 6min
Bonus Sample: “What will happen?” (asks a 12 year-old)
Matthew got The Question on the morning after the election. At that moment, he came up with nothing but a hug. But then he chewed on it for days, and came up with eleven things to consider. So here are some notes for possible conversations with tweens about anxiety, bullies, fascism, friends, mutual aid, and love. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
