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
Jan 18, 2025 • 48min
Brief: Tech-Bro Mormonism (w/Blair Hodges)
Blair Hodges, a religious studies expert with a focus on Mormonism, dives into Bryan Johnson's unconventional lifestyle choices rooted in his LDS background. They explore how Johnson's transhumanist views reflect both his faith and his departure from it. There's a fascinating discussion on the intersection of wealth and spirituality within Mormonism, and how contemporary tech moguls' lives echo traditional rituals. Hodges also sheds light on the emotional toll of familial estrangement for those leaving the Mormon community.
Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 2min
240: Bryan Johnson’s Impossible Blueprint
Dive into the intriguing world of Bryan Johnson, a tech entrepreneur chasing immortality with a $2 million annual budget. Explore the impact of wildfires on communities, the rise of conspiracy theories, and the societal implications of climate disasters. Delve into the psychology behind Johnson's chaotic journey and the commercialization of wellness, while grappling with the beauty myths fueled by celebrity culture. The quest for eternal youth reveals the dangerous obsession with aesthetics and the ethical dilemmas in modern biohacking.
Jan 14, 2025 • 36min
Clarity Lab: Fighting Cancer Misinformation
Dr. Andrea Love, an immunologist and microbiologist, joins Derek Beres to unravel the dangers of cancer misinformation. They discuss how pseudoscientific treatments like celery juice and coffee enemas mislead vulnerable patients. Andrea explains the complexities of cancer research, debunking myths about natural cures and emphasizing the importance of reliable information. They also highlight advancements in targeted therapies that improve treatment outcomes, advocating for critical thinking in wellness culture.
Jan 13, 2025 • 6min
Bonus Sample: Kelly Brogan’s Divine Dungeon: Pt 1 (feat/Esme Providence Brown)
The conversation dives into the intertwining of politics, feminism, and spirituality, showcasing insights from a social justice advocate. They explore how Kelly Brogan's journey reflects a troubling blend of wellness culture and antifeminist rhetoric. The discussion includes her transformation from a scientific background to embracing controversial aesthetics and ideologies. The hosts dissect the implications of these shifts on contemporary sociopolitical issues, hinting at a deeper narrative of appropriation and responsibility.
Jan 11, 2025 • 36min
Brief: Vinay Prasad’s Pick-me Campaign
Vinay Prasad's controversial comparison of the US COVID response to the Third Reich sparks heated debate. The discussion dives into his skepticism towards masking and vaccines, raising questions about public trust in health narratives. The Samoa measles outbreak showcases the complex interplay of responsibility and public perception. Critical reviews of lockdown strategies reveal their political implications and ethical concerns. Finally, the podcast critiques the role of influencers in climate discourse and public health amid rampant misinformation.
7 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 54min
239: Conspiracy Of Dunces
As 2025 approaches, the hosts dive into the dangers of conspiracy theorists and pseudoscience infiltrating politics, reshaping governance. Mysterious drone sightings spark public panic and misinformation, reflecting broader security concerns. They also tackle health misinformation, advocating for universal healthcare reforms amid personal stories. The challenge of maintaining authenticity in an era of AI-generated content is explored, highlighting the struggle between genuine experiences and synthetic allure.
Jan 6, 2025 • 6min
Bonus Sample: The Giant Rock Interplanetary Spacecraft Convention
Dive into the fascinating story of George van Tassel, the original UFO contactee who claimed visits from aliens. Discover his annual Interplanetary Spacecraft Convention, which attracted thousands for two decades. Explore the mystical Mojave Desert and the notorious Giant Rock, where van Tassel played with ideas of time travel and telepathy. Learn about the mysterious circumstances surrounding his death and the intriguing implications of FBI involvement, all woven into a broader narrative of pseudoscience and modern spirituality.
49 snips
Jan 4, 2025 • 46min
Brief: Trump the Babyface, Trump the Heel (w/Abraham Josie Reisman)
Journalist Abraham Josephine Reisman, known for her insights on pro wrestling and politics, discusses how Donald Trump's wrestling fandom shapes his political persona. She introduces the concept of 'neokayfabe,' where reality and fiction intertwine, making the public complicit in a spectacle of cruelty. Reisman explores Trump's theatricality and its implications for truth in politics, drawing parallels between wrestling archetypes and political dynamics. The conversation reveals how charisma in leadership echoes the performative nature of wrestling, complicating public perception.
8 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 1h 14min
238: Diary of a CEO Bro
Dive into the rise of a top podcaster who's attracted controversial wellness figures while sometimes indulging their conspiracies. Explore the thin line between health activism and misinformation in media narratives. Discover insights on dietary myths surrounding glucose management and fruit misconceptions. The podcast critiques the clean beauty movement and highlights socio-economic disparities in health, questioning the emotional tactics of wellness marketing. Tune in for a mix of intrigue and sharp analysis!
Dec 31, 2024 • 28min
Relief Project #6: Rebecca Solnit
In this insightful discussion, Rebecca Solnit, a renowned writer, historian, and activist, shares her vast knowledge on feminism, social change, and community resilience. She explores the links between climate change and technology, emphasizing the need for urgent action and real human connections. Solnit reflects on the heroic spirit of communities like the 'Cajun Navy' during crises and discusses the vital role of storytelling and ancestral wisdom in navigating challenging times. Her reflections inspire hope and solidarity in a world facing numerous challenges.
