David Gborie joins to explore the captivating rise of Ziz LaSota, a bright young girl from Alaska who becomes a controversial figure in the rationalist movement. They discuss her obsession with philosophy and ethics, especially regarding sentience and artificial intelligence. The conversation dives into how cult leaders can emerge from charismatic individuals like Ziz and the psychological influences that lead followers to embrace radical beliefs. Gborie also highlights the absurdities of tech culture and the moral dilemmas faced in the gig economy.

David Boree, co-host of 'My Mama Told Me', joins to dive into the dark tale of the Zizians, a group tied to bizarre occurrences and violence. They trace how fandom, particularly Harry Potter fanfic, intersects with real-life tragedy, specifically the killing of a Border Patrol officer. The conversation goes deeper into how online communities can evolve into dangerous cults, the absurdity of celebrity politics, and the unsettling philosophies influencing rationalist ideologies surrounding AI, showcasing the thin line between fiction and reality.

In this discussion, Margaret Kiljoy, an activist and journalist known for her environmental advocacy, shares insights into the ongoing resistance against the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Kevin MacDonald, a retired Irish Defense Forces officer, reflects on peacekeeping complexities in Africa, particularly in the Congo. Venkthesh Ramnath, a pulmonologist, addresses the upcoming 'telemedicine cliff' and its impact on healthcare. Kaveh Hoda, a gastroenterologist, adds perspectives on healthcare challenges amidst legislative changes, highlighting the intertwining of technology and patient care.

Delve into the extravagant world of Versailles, where the nobles' gambling mirrored today's crypto craze. Discover the Sun King's tragic demise and the eerie undercurrents of poisoning among the elite. Dive into the bizarre court traditions and the scandalous intrigues that thrived in this lavish palace. Gossip emerged as a powerful tool, shaping public perception and political outcomes. From opulence to decline, the historical parallels resonate with today's societal divides, illuminative of the dance between wealth and power.

Sophie Lichterman, who once found herself caught in an HGH ring scandal, joins for a captivating discussion. They explore the notorious court of Versailles, likening it to a grandiose frat house that shaped French nobility's disconnect from reality. The chat humorously reflects on the absurdity of political dynasties, with a nod to a 2016 Trump rally. From Louis XIV's early struggles to the palace's opulent absurdities, they unravel how this history mirrors today's rising oligarchy and social dynamics, showcasing the enduring impact of luxury and power.

Molly White, a crypto journalist known for her keen insights into cryptocurrency, Steve Monticelli, who investigates extremism, and Dr. Michael Phillips, a historian specializing in racism and eugenics, join the conversation. The trio delves into the rise of arguably absurd meme coins influencing Argentine politics and critiques the dark side of crypto scams. They also examine the tensions surrounding critical race theory in education, alongside a discussion about America's complex Christian identity and the reshaping of political narratives by neo-reactionaries.

Alison Raskin joins the discussion to delve into the controversial legacy of Bruno Bettelheim, a Holocaust survivor turned child psychologist. They explore how his methods for treating "emotionally disturbed" children veered into troubling territory, often prioritizing control over care. The dialogue illuminates the abusive practices at his orthogenic school and critiques the historical pathologization of childhood behaviors. Raskin also addresses misconceptions around autism, urging a reevaluation of harmful narratives that persist today.

Allison Rankin, a writer, director, and comedian, dives into the controversial life of Bruno Bettelheim, a survivor of concentration camps who made waves in child mental health care. They explore Bettelheim's attempts to create a 'good' concentration camp for children, raising ethical questions about his practices. The conversation also touches on his complex background and the implications of his distorted narratives during WWII, highlighting how they challenge our understanding of trauma and the Holocaust.

This week, grassroots organizing at Peet's Coffee is highlighted, showcasing workers' struggles against management. An exploration of anarchism reveals its nuanced definitions and opposition to authority. The podcast dives into the challenges delivery workers face and advocates for direct action in labor movements. Political tensions are discussed alongside health policy shifts and their impact. Finally, there’s a light-hearted yet serious look at global threats and the importance of understanding mutual aid principles.

Samantha McVeigh joins the discussion on the scandalous life of Tony Alamo, the once-famous preacher turned cult leader. They delve into Alamo's shocking past of exploiting child labor to create celebrity jackets while committing horrific crimes. The conversation covers his bizarre practices after his wife's death, including exhibiting her body to followers. They explore the disturbing realities of child brides and the manipulative tactics he used under the guise of faith, exposing the dark side of fame intertwined with consumer culture.