Conspirituality

Talia Lavin, a journalist and author of "Wild Faith: How the Christian Right is Taking Over America," dives into the rising influence of evangelical Christians in U.S. politics. She discusses the alarming trends of corporal punishment and homeschooling, revealing their impact on democracy. Lavin also critiques the Christian right's educational agenda and its implications for marginalized groups. The conversation warns about the potential dangers of a theocratic agenda under a second Trump administration, especially for LGBTQ+ rights and abortion access.

The aftermath of a controversial election unfolds as Trump's cabinet picks stir the pot of conspiracy thinking. Media outlets scramble to adapt their strategies amidst the chaos, weighing options like anti-fascist resistance and normalization. A curious intersection of political influencers emerges, igniting discussions around misinformation and personal conviction. Meanwhile, the complex discourse surrounding reproductive rights highlights the essentiality of choice. Finally, the podcast humorously critiques absurd political narratives while tackling weighty global issues like allegations of genocide.

Researchers warn that a single mutation in the bird flu could enable human transmission, raising public health concerns. A recent recall of raw milk in California due to H5N1 contamination highlights the tension between wellness trends and safety. The discussion delves into the confusion surrounding individual, population, and public health, especially amid the rising threats from climate change. The podcast also explores the interplay of politics and public health in food safety, showcasing real-life implications and the frustrations of those addressing these critical issues.

Tia Levings, an exvangelical author and advocate, shares her gripping story of breaking free from the constraints of Christian patriarchy in her memoir, "The Well-Trained Wife." She discusses the disturbing realities of indoctrination and abuse, shedding light on the connection between evangelicalism and modern political ideologies. Tia emphasizes the liberating journey of rejecting modesty culture and addresses the profound impact of emotional trauma within her marriage. Her narrative celebrates resilience and the power of storytelling in reclaiming one's identity.

Mallory DeMille, a fearless correspondent, dives into the MAHA Mamas phenomenon, revealing how social media misinformation shapes mothers' views on health. They discuss the political implications of this wellness movement and the troubling rise of anti-vaccine sentiments led by figures like RFK Jr. DeMille critiques the intersection of motherhood, politics, and health, highlighting how mothers advocate for nutrition amidst widespread conspiracy theories. The conversation emphasizes the need for informed discourse in a climate rife with misinformation.

Delve into the intriguing intersection of belief and politics as they explore how MAGA ideology reflects spiritual elements of liberalism and capitalism. The discussion critiques the messianic portrayal of Donald Trump, revealing the deeper psychological dynamics at play among his followers. Historical references enhance the conversation, showcasing capitalism as a religion that fulfills the anxieties once addressed by traditional faiths. Uncover how these intertwining ideologies reshape modern perceptions of spirituality and governance.

Peter Thiel, the entrepreneur behind PayPal, joins Bari Weiss to delve into the complexities of media independence. They challenge the Free Press's claims of impartiality against a backdrop of substantial funding from right-leaning individuals. The conversation navigates the ethics of financial influence on journalism, Thiel's perspective on political dynamics during the 2020 Democratic primaries, and the tension between healthy skepticism and conspiracy theories. They also discuss the need for scientific literacy amidst rising dogmatism in modern science.

The discussion dives into Trump’s lightning-fast cabinet appointments, highlighting the bizarre mix of pro-wrestling executives, anti-vax advocates, and controversial figures. It raises alarm over their qualifications and the potential impact on public health and education policies. The connection between conspiracy theories, political shifts, and the MAGA movement is scrutinized, alongside the entertaining intersections of wrestling and governance. Prepare for a thought-provoking analysis wrapped in a layer of wit and humor!

Rob Schenck, author of "Costly Grace" and former anti-abortion activist, shares his remarkable journey of de-radicalization and personal recovery. He discusses the importance of hope and resilience in confronting rising autocracy, drawing inspiration from the legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Schenck emphasizes the need for compassionate dialogue to combat misinformation and rebuild community trust. He also addresses how to guide children through their climate fears, highlighting the importance of validating their concerns and encouraging collaborative action.

Dive into the riveting circus of a congressional hearing where the climate denialist spills the beans on government UFO cover-ups. Get ready for a wild ride with claims of reverse-engineered UFOs and alien 'biologics' being tossed around without a shred of evidence. Lawmakers channel their inner conspiracy theorists with nods to wild History Channel tales, blending political theater with sensationalism. Meanwhile, the tension between government transparency and censorship takes center stage, leaving listeners questioning what’s really lurking in the skies.