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
8 snips
Jun 21, 2025 • 37min
Brief: MAHA Mass Casualty Horizon
The podcast delves into the critical role of public health professionals and the overlooked threats they face. It highlights the increasing health disparities influenced by globalization and critiques the wellness industry's impact on preventive measures. Insights from Laurie Garrett shed light on the dangers of disregarding evidence-based medicine and the misallocation of resources. The discussion underscores the urgent need for comprehensive public health strategies, cooperative efforts, and deeper investment to safeguard global health.
11 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h
262: Dems Ask “What is a Man?”
The podcast dives into the intriguing dynamics of young men's political preferences, revealing a surprising shift towards right-wing ideologies among this demographic, particularly during the last election. It critiques the Democratic Party's response with a $20M initiative aimed at understanding and engaging these voters. The discussion highlights the crisis of masculinity and how digital culture, misinformation, and social media influence young men's identities and political views. With a need for genuine connections, it explores the allure of harmful ideologies and the rise of aggressive political language.
Jun 16, 2025 • 7min
Bonus Sample: The Bethesda Declaration
In a gripping analysis, the podcast dives into the controversial aftermath of the Great Barrington Declaration, revealing the storm of dissent among medical professionals. Listeners learn about the Bethesda Declaration, which addresses urgent issues at the NIH under Jay Bhattacharya's leadership. The tense Congressional hearing about proposed funding cuts adds drama and urgency to the discussion. The dialogue challenges perceptions of vaccine research and public safety, raising critical questions on transparency and the role of independent media.
Jun 14, 2025 • 40min
Brief: The Ghost Lab
Matt Hongolt-Hetling, a Pulitzer-nominated journalist and author, dives into the world of paranormal beliefs in his latest book, shedding light on ghost hunting's history. He discusses how diminishing trust in traditional institutions fuels our obsession with the supernatural. Delving into pop culture's role, he highlights figures like Ed and Lorraine Warren and the enduring impact of the Fox sisters' spiritualism. The conversation also uncovers the psychological needs that drive individuals toward alternative beliefs, raising concerns about abandoning evidence for the inexplicable.
Jun 12, 2025 • 1h 1min
261: Where Are They Now?
The podcast revisits cultural icons who shifted towards conspiracy and anti-vaccine ideologies. It highlights the controversial journeys of figures like Christiane Northrup and Mikki Willis, who transformed from health experts to conspiracy advocates. The conversation delves into the intersection of wellness and misinformation, exploring how personal trauma can influence public belief. Issues of exploitation in the wellness industry and the rise of pseudoscience are critiqued, raising questions about the integrity of health narratives in today's world.
Jun 9, 2025 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Watching Andor with the Kids (Pt 2)
Dive into a thought-provoking journey through the cultural heart of 'Star Wars.' Explore the clash of optimism and realism as characters like Luke Skywalker and Cassian Andor represent different values. Uncover how the creators embedded antifascist themes within the narrative, making it a radical masterpiece. Discuss the challenges of parenthood in a universe rife with conflict, and reflect on the balance between hope and justice. Spoiler alert: this isn't your typical space saga!
Jun 7, 2025 • 39min
Brief: Watching Andor with the Kids (Pt 1)
A deep dive into 'Andor' reveals its potential as a tool for teaching anti-fascism to kids. The exploration of Star Wars as a cultural touchstone blends nostalgia with urgent social commentary. Character transformations post-Disney showcase diversity and representation, spurring intriguing fan reactions. The series also highlights neurodiversity, challenging traditional hero narratives. Lastly, themes of unity against oppression echo historical movements, marrying hope with a call for justice in today’s world.
8 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 1h 10min
260: Aubrey Marcus's Polyamory God Bomb
Mark Gaffney, an old-school spiritualist with a controversial past, joins Aubrey Marcus, a megamillionaire life coach, discussing their unconventional polyamorous plans sparked by a supposed divine message. They dive into the emotional turmoil entwined with modern polyamory, critiquing influencer culture's role in shaping personal relationships. The trio navigates intimacy crises and societal expectations, pondering the complexities of love and vulnerability in today's fast-evolving relationship landscape, all peppered with humor and candid reflections.
5 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Has Nonviolence Been Debunked?
What defines a protestor in today's world? The discussion dives into the effectiveness of peaceful versus violent protest, challenging popular beliefs. Political sociologist Benjamin Case argues that successful movements often involve property destruction and street fighting, questioning the notion of nonviolent resistance. He critiques well-known advocates like Erica Chenoweth and Gene Sharp, pondering their roles in activism. The conversation also contemplates the best strategies for protest in an increasingly authoritarian climate.
May 31, 2025 • 34min
Brief: The FDA Amateur Hour Podcast
Marty Makary and Vinay Prasad dive into the inner workings of the FDA, aiming to demystify its operations. They challenge controversial figures in public health leadership and discuss the fallout from misinformation during the pandemic. The duo critiques food labeling regulations, highlighting the absurdity of current standards. They also explore the health implications of talc in products and call for further investigation. Finally, they examine traditional medicine's shortcomings, spotlighting the rise of alternative health narratives.
