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
14 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 59min
267: Epstein Never Died
The podcast dives into the renewed obsession with Jeffrey Epstein's files, spurred on by MAGA supporters. It explores how Trump’s rhetoric has fueled conspiracy theories, leaving Republicans divided over the handling of Epstein’s legacy. There's a stark look at the ties between high-profile figures and the culture of complicity that enabled abuse. The discussion extends to the role of religious institutions grappling with scandals, as well as the broader societal implications of deception and mistrust that arise from these narratives.
Jul 21, 2025 • 5min
Bonus Sample: Galloway and the Mooch: The Lost Boys of Capitalism (Pt 2)
A new liberal-center manosphere aims to connect with young men drawn to Trumpism but struggles with what to offer. Professor Galloway and Scaramucci reveal the flaws of capitalism that shaped their success while acknowledging its cruelty. They explore the allure of nostalgia and the emotional complexities of parenting. The critique of modern masculinity dives into the contradictions of their narrative, raising important questions about how societal structures impact boys today.
Jul 19, 2025 • 46min
Brief: Galloway and the Mooch: The Lost Boys of Capitalism (Pt 1)
In this discussion featuring Scott Galloway, a marketing professor and co-host of the Lost Boys podcast, he and Anthony Scaramucci dive into the evolving dynamics of modern masculinity. They explore the nostalgia for past ideals while critiquing the very capitalism that enriched them. Galloway reveals his transformation from businessman to critic of wealth inequality. The conversation touches on the emotional struggles young men face today, emphasizing resilience and the complexities of identity in our changing society.
Jul 17, 2025 • 1h 15min
266: Jubilee’s Body Image Debates
Dive into the complexities of body image as the conversation navigates societal standards and personal experiences. Jubilee Media's provocative debates spark discussions about empathy and the dangers of sensationalism in body image discourse. Explore the evolution of body image activism from fat protests to contemporary ideas of body neutrality. Tackle the psychological effects of anorexia, obesity, and the stigma intertwined with health and self-acceptance. A critical look at gender dynamics reveals the deeper issues behind our perceptions of fitness and beauty.
Jul 14, 2025 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Globalize The Intifada?
The podcast dives into the powerful role of protest slogans in activist movements, focusing on Nerdeen Kiswani and her Brooklyn-based group. With striking calls for solidarity like "Globalize the Intifada," they challenge mainstream views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The discussion also touches on the fine line between anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism, as they advocate for a radical approach to social change. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of rhetoric, political activism, and the emotions that drive today's protests.
6 snips
Jul 12, 2025 • 22min
Brief: Vaccination, a Delusion?
The discussion dives into the historical roots of the anti-vaccination movement, tracing back to Alfred Russel Wallace's influential pamphlet from 1898. It examines how outdated arguments are being resurfaced by modern figures like RFK Jr. The conversation also highlights the evolving science behind vaccination, emphasizing the importance of scientific integrity amid the current wave of skepticism. Listeners gain insight into the connection between historical opposition and today's debates on public health and personal freedom.
6 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 1h 12min
265: Guru Rehab
Dive into the tumultuous journey of Aubrey Marcus, a controversial figure caught in the crosshairs of spirituality and politics. Explore how he spins his personal crises into media gold, leveraging his past relationships for spiritual credibility. The conversation also touches on the backlash over polyamorous relationships among spiritual leaders, the harsh realities of the Israel-Gaza conflict, and the ethical dilemmas of public therapy. As influencer culture clashes with authenticity, the podcast reveals the darker side of guru narratives in a digital age.
Jul 7, 2025 • 8min
Bonus Sample: Purity Tests & Coalition Building
The podcast delves into Zohran Mamdani's victory in the NYC mayoral primary and the political maneuvers that obscure his core message. It questions the Democratic establishment's reluctance to back progressive candidates and the potential pitfalls for the left. There's a nostalgic exploration of NYC's cultural richness and the unifying power of music events, contrasted with the community's rightful concerns over noise. The discussion also touches on the fracturing dynamics within the Democratic Socialists and the implications of recent endorsements.
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.
