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
22 snips
Nov 9, 2023 • 1h 15min
179: The Conspiracy of…Cities? (w/Doug Gordon)
Doug Gordon, transportation planner and journalist, joins the podcast to debunk a conspiracy theory about walkable cities. They discuss the legacy of Jane Jacobs in urban planning, the contrasting approaches of Jane Jacobs and Robert Moses, the 'war on cars' narrative, the impact of city spaces on people, and conspiracy theories surrounding the Oxford plan to limit car usage.
Nov 6, 2023 • 7min
Bonus Sample: A Prescription — To Fix Healthcare
The podcast discusses the challenges of accessing flu shots and COVID boosters in the American healthcare system, including bureaucratic struggles and high costs. The host shares personal experiences with his wife's breast cancer screenings and unexpected costs. The episode explores the reasons behind low vaccination rates, including anti-vax efforts and ineffective messaging from public health agencies.
13 snips
Nov 4, 2023 • 1h 1min
Special Report: QAnon Fantasies Look Like Colonial Realities (w/Julian Brave NoiseCat)
Julian Brave NoiseCat, a writer and filmmaker, discusses the parallels between right-wing conspiracy theories and historical oppression of Indigenous peoples. He explores the similarities between replacement theory and manifest destiny, as well as QAnon and institutionalized child abuse. NoiseCat also delves into the concept of settler colonialism and its implications for Indigenous populations. He reflects on personal experiences as a Native person and the power of love and gratitude in making a positive impact on the world.
Nov 2, 2023 • 1h 25min
178: Silicon Valley Veda
In this podcast, the hosts critique Marc Andreessen's techno-optimist manifesto, discuss the spiritualization of technology, analyze rhetoric and techno optimism, critique the praise of capitalism, examine poverty measurement, explore the impact of the pandemic on poverty and billionaire profits, and delve into historical references and present-day ideologies.
Oct 30, 2023 • 18min
Bonus Sample: RFK Jr. and Deconstruction Ecstasy Syndrome
The podcast explores RFK Jr.'s campaign and its appeal to those in the wellness industry. It reflects on transformative meditation experiences and the stripping away in spiritual practices. The commodification of ancient practices and the deconstructive effect of travel are also discussed.
Oct 28, 2023 • 30min
Brief: Bari Weiss's Sexual Revolution (w/Michelle Lhooq)
Journalist Michelle Lhooq discusses the recent 'debate' on the failure of the sexual revolution. They explore the rising influence of the new right and how the left can regain appeal. They also discuss the shifting location of counterculture, the portrayal of pornography in the feminist revolution, and the left's struggle to maintain its cool factor.
Oct 23, 2023 • 5min
Bonus Sample: Swamp Creatures 4: Let We The People Say “Amen!”
Julian profiles a man who connects the dots between gun-nut fifth column in American law enforcement, anti-woke mania, and grassroots Christian Nationalist/QAnon crossover. The podcast explores the controversies surrounding constitutional sheriffs, their ties to militia and white supremacist groups, and their involvement in the Capitol attack. It also discusses allegations of badge and credential deception by a law enforcement officer.
Oct 21, 2023 • 25min
Brief: Sovereign In Sedona (w/Isaac Stone Simonelli)
Investigative reporter Isaac Stone Simonelli discusses the troubling increase of sovereign citizen legal filings in Arizona's spiritual communities. The podcast explores the connection between sovereign citizens and a wellness yoga community center, delving into shared language, financial concerns, and ongoing court cases. It also explores the journey and experiences of individuals disillusioned with the government, as well as the intersection of a community with libertarian and right-wing conspiratorial beliefs.
Oct 19, 2023 • 1h 20min
176: Russell Brand’s Man Stans
Russell Brand, a guest on the podcast, is investigated for allegations of sexual assault. The podcast explores the challenges women face discussing sensitive topics in a misogynistic online environment. They discuss how spiritual beliefs can lead to conspiracy theories, using Brand as an example. They also touch on controversial figures like Daniel Pinchbeck and Warren Farrell, and the consequences of Brand's behavior and statements.
Oct 16, 2023 • 10min
Bonus Sample: Inside the Church of Bleach
The podcast explores the case of the Grenon family, sentenced for selling bleach as a cure for COVID-19 and other diseases. It discusses the background of Mark Grenon, founder of the Genesis II Church of Health & Healing, and the dangerous consequences of their claims. The chapter highlights the harmful effects of drinking bleach and emphasizes the importance of caution when handling it.
