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
6 snips
Jul 5, 2025 • 36min
Brief: The Liver King Crash-Out
The saga of Brian Johnson, aka The Liver King, unfolds with a shocking arrest after allegedly threatening Joe Rogan. Delve into the rise of this primal influencer, whose extreme dietary claims and masculine branding were met with skepticism. As his faux persona crumbles under revelations of drug use, the hosts dissect the chaos and fallout affecting both his followers and family. With humor and insight, they address the absurdity of his antics and the darker side of social media celebrity culture.
Jul 3, 2025 • 1h 10min
264: The Mamdani Effect
Zohran Mamdani's win for NYC mayoral nomination signals a shift towards progressive policies and a new populist left. This victory sparks debate on its implications amid rising authoritarianism. The conversation dives into the challenges of navigating identity, specifically regarding Islamophobia and anti-Semitism, while proposing collaborative models for policing. The tensions in political language and coalitions are explored, along with critiques of anti-vaccine rhetoric that endanger public health, particularly for vulnerable communities. Will Mamdani be a unifying force or divisive? Time will tell.
Jun 30, 2025 • 5min
Bonus Sample: Greta Thunberg’s “Super Power” Vs. Fascists and Liberals (Pt 2)
Greta Thunberg emerges as a powerful force against both fascism and liberalism, challenging societal norms and expectations. As she evolves, she critiques not just climate issues but digs into capitalism and colonialism. The discussion explores the unique struggles of an autistic activist facing backlash for her daring views. With themes of neurodiversity and the emotional toll of activism, the conversation highlights how Thunberg inspires a deeper contemplation of the status quo, all while confronting the hamster wheel of modern capitalism.
5 snips
Jun 28, 2025 • 42min
Brief: Greta Thunberg’s “Super Power” vs. Fascists and Liberals (Pt 1)
Greta Thunberg is shaking up the status quo and drawing ire from both fascists and liberals as she expands her activism into humanitarian issues like Gaza. Her evolution from child activist to a voice against capitalism and colonialism is both inspiring and controversial. The podcast digs into how her neurodivergent identity shapes her advocacy, highlighting the unique strengths and challenges that come with it. It challenges listeners to reconsider obedience in education and the political ramifications of thought leaders like Thunberg.
12 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 59min
263: The Apostle Assassin
A pastor's violent rampage reveals chilling ties to the New Apostolic Reformation, exposing the dangerous blend of religion and politics. The episode scrutinizes the motivations behind the attack and the wider implications for political extremism. It highlights how marketing strategies, like MAGA-themed products, reflect a troubling intersection of capitalism and ideological warfare. Plus, discussions on recent Canadian legislation reveal patterns of authoritarianism reminiscent of U.S. trends, prompting concerns over rights erosion and radicalization.
Jun 23, 2025 • 6min
Bonus Sample: The Two-For-One Guru of MSIA
Explore the extravagant life of Roger Hinkins, the mastermind behind a wealthy seminar empire and self-proclaimed spiritual guru. Discover how he claimed to channel a mystical consciousness while orchestrating a lavish lifestyle complete with a villa and devoted followers. Unravel the fascinating story behind the Movement for Spiritual Inner Awareness, filled with deception and the illusion of clairvoyance. Delve into the disturbing tactics Hinkins used to silence critics, branding them as vessels of demonic energy.
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.
