Conspirituality

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.

The podcast delves into the controversial actions of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as he leads health initiatives with bold claims about autism and the MMR vaccine. It highlights his alarming proposal to eliminate fluoride from drinking water and scrutinizes his marketing tactics during visits to grieving families. The discussion also draws parallels between public health messaging and the influence of humor, revealing how misinformation can shape perceptions in healthcare. Expect insightful critiques of public figures and their impact on vaccine narratives.

Jay Bhattacharya's appointment as the new director of the NIH sparks discussions on potential shifts in public health policy. The conversation critiques how marginalized experts are portrayed in the COVID discourse, including the controversial Great Barrington Declaration. Trust in science and the impact on marginalized communities during the pandemic are examined. The tension between scientific integrity and political influences becomes a focal point, along with the complex issues surrounding autism, vaccines, and public health consequences.

In this discussion, the impact of modern media, particularly figures like Andrew Tate, on boys is critically examined. The Netflix series 'Adolescence' serves as a lens for analyzing societal issues like violence and misogyny. Filmmaking techniques are explored, highlighting the challenges of character portrayal amidst digital influences. The pressures of the UK education system and the mental health crisis among students are also addressed. Finally, the insufficient representation of girls in narratives about youth conflicts raises important questions about societal dynamics.

The discussion delves into how classic narratives like 'The Sound of Music' obscure the harsh realities of nationalism. It reflects on Sophie Scholl and the Edelweiss Pirates, highlighting the importance of trusting youth amid rising fascism. Highlighted are thoughts from Emma Goldman and Janusz Korczak on engaged parenting that challenges the status quo. The conversation urges a move beyond mere compliance, advocating for proactive antifascism to empower the next generation against exploitation and resentment fueled by figures like Jordan Peterson and Andrew Tate.

The discussion dives into the challenges of anti-fascist parenting, highlighting the impact of contemporary figures like Andrew Tate. It critiques the Netflix series 'Adolescence' for its portrayal of education and misrepresentation of youth experiences. The hosts reflect on Sophie Scholl's bravery against tyranny, emphasizing the need for moral courage in today's political climate. They explore how adult anxieties influence children's perceptions and stress the importance of genuine engagement, role models, and fostering critical thinking in young minds.

Curtis Yarvin, a neo-reactionary philosopher and influential voice in the New Right, discusses his provocative views on governance, advocating for a shift away from democracy towards authoritarianism. He highlights the troubling connections between tech moguls and reactionary ideologies, emphasizing their role in reshaping politics. The conversation also dives into the normalization of violence in political rhetoric, and ironies of modern discourse that blend conspiracy theories with mainstream media, challenging listeners to reconsider the implications for society.

Dive into the murky waters of oligarchy and its chilling echoes between post-Soviet Russia and modern America. Explore the role of Russian oligarchs in influencing the 2016 election and how propaganda fuels today's disinformation landscape. Discover Vladislav Surkov's impact on Putin’s reign and what it means for democracy's decline. The discussion also touches on the theatrics of contemporary politics, likening MAGA's tactics to historical figures while examining the troubling consequences of echoing authoritarianism.

Derek and Julian dissect Robert Paxton's insights on the anatomy of fascism and its relevance to America's future. They explore how fascism evolves from mass political movements and compare it to contemporary authoritarian leaders. The discussion covers the implications of rising nationalism and the intertwining of identity politics with governance today. They also touch on public health concerns amidst political chaos, including the controversial figures like Djokovic in the anti-vaccine movement, illuminating historical parallels with modern dissent.