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
12 snips
May 5, 2025 • 7min
Bonus Sample: How Did Gen X Go MAGA?
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.
27 snips
May 3, 2025 • 28min
Brief: The New Media Order
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.
5 snips
May 1, 2025 • 1h 1min
255: A MAHA Wellness Scam at Ontario Place
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.
Apr 28, 2025 • 8min
Bonus Sample: How To Talk To Your Son About Fascism (Pt 2)
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.
13 snips
Apr 26, 2025 • 47min
Brief: How To Talk To Your Son About Fascism (Pt 1)
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.
8 snips
Apr 24, 2025 • 1h 16min
254: The Great MAHA Purity War of 2025
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.
Apr 21, 2025 • 6min
Bonus Sample: God is a Cloned Alien Love-Machine!
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.
9 snips
Apr 19, 2025 • 36min
Brief: The Cult of Crossfit
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
5 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 55min
253: The Politics of Abundance
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.
Apr 14, 2025 • 6min
Bonus Sample: We Already Know What September Will Bring
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.
