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
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.
16 snips
May 29, 2025 • 1h 3min
259: MAHA is Project 2025’s Trojan Horse
A deep dive into Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s health agenda reveals unsettling ties to Project 2025's deregulatory push. The discussion critiques the ethical implications of health testing commercialization and vaccine skepticism. Tensions surrounding COVID-19 policies highlight public mistrust and the political fallout of dissenting voices in healthcare. Additionally, the podcast confronts historical misconceptions about autism, advocating for a more inclusive approach to neurodiversity amid systemic inequalities.
5 snips
May 26, 2025 • 7min
Bonus Sample: A Master Class in Wellness Propaganda
Explore the intriguing world of wellness propaganda as the podcast dives into Calley Means, a key advisor to RFK Jr. Unravel the complex ties between Means and the wellness industry, questioning his motives and the potential conflicts of interest. Discussion highlights the implications of his claims about health products and the concerns surrounding telehealth's impact on patient care. Listen in as they uncover the deregulatory ethos that influences current health policy.
4 snips
May 24, 2025 • 35min
Brief: The Gospel of MAHA Apologetics
Dive into the tangled web of public health controversies, as recent decisions spark debates over political motivations and misinformation. Explore the rise of wellness influencers pushing dubious health trends, and the implications for genuine healthcare advice. The discussion also tackles the heated vaccine debate, emphasizing the balance between personal choice and public health. Finally, uncover the deceptive political tactics at play in shaping perceptions of education and healthcare, revealing the challenges faced in delivering accurate information.
6 snips
May 22, 2025 • 1h 16min
258: Pope Bob Vs. Trump World
A recent meeting between the Pope and Trump allies reveals tensions between the Church and conservative political agendas. The Pope’s enigmatic response raises questions about his role amidst rising fascism. Discussions include Opus Dei’s controversial ties to fascism and financial influence, alongside the Church's colonial legacy. The ongoing struggle between progressive and conservative factions within Catholicism highlights debates on LGBTQ rights and leadership inclusivity. Historical narratives intertwine with contemporary politics, showcasing the challenges the Church faces today.
