CogPod: The Logic and Reason Show

What is the rapture, where did the idea first come from, and why did it loom so large in evangelical life?In this episode, Claudine shares her rapture-saturated evangelical upbringing—complete with “Left Behind” style movies and altar-call fear—while we unpack the theology, history, and pop‑culture behind rapture teaching.We have conversations about “rapture trauma” and deconstruction, we explore how this doctrine has no doubt screwed people up and probably embarrassed them.\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.#suddenlyraptured #rapture #endtimes #bibleprophecy #evangelical #exvangelical #deconstruction #rapturetrauma #christianpodcast #christianstories #leftbehind #rapturemovies #christianculture #faithjourney #churchtrauma #spiritualformation

New to CogPod or trying to catch up? Episode 20 is your guided tour through our first 20 episodes (excluding 12 and 15), from “Religion vs Ozzy” and purity culture’s obsession with female sexuality to Christianity’s parable problem, coming out at Thanksgiving, felony murder, and interviews with voices like Mandisa Thomas of Black Nonbelievers.This retrospective highlights the big themes—deconstruction, religious trauma, church and state, ethics, criminal justice, holidays with family, and rebuilding life after belief—so exvangelicals, doubters, and curious believers can quickly find the conversations that matter most to them.\\ EPISODE LINKS //01-Religion vs. Ozzy: https://youtu.be/fTQjIiLqxXc02-Psychology Behind Religious Superstitions: https://youtu.be/1QJGVga8Q9A03-What Religions Say About Atheists: https://youtu.be/c-nfbg8P4w804-The BULLSHIT of Thoughts & Prayers: https://youtu.be/y0fNLUOlny805-How Do We Stop Mass Violence?: https://youtu.be/B7LDm6-YPZo06-Female Purity: https://youtu.be/qWpKw36grtA07-Does God Have a Gambling Problem?: https://youtu.be/jy3J74RARTo08-Inside the MAGA Brain: https://youtu.be/JVJ-XngbWew09-Wacky Christian Scientists: https://youtu.be/BzdfG8O0UPg10-Mandisa Thomas Interview: https://youtu.be/tDXtpttljUk11-Christian Nationalism: https://youtu.be/uGinjfjmxuk12-Secular Dating: https://youtu.be/mvBKKYSd-v413-Sam Stone Interview: https://youtu.be/sz4rs-B8sLk14-Religion is the Original MLM Scheme: https://youtu.be/qMaKICROwWI15-Separation of Church and State: https://youtu.be/LPoBkhQpSvI16-Christianity's Parable Problem: https://youtu.be/r9maZ5IKKvA17-Deconstructing Faith: https://youtu.be/DZWypEDu4Fs18-Felony Murder: https://youtu.be/kWt0fGtM7ns19-Coming Out at Thanksgiving: https://youtu.be/DsuypjdQorQ#CogPod #Deconstruction #Exvangelical #ReligiousTrauma #LeavingReligion #AtheistPodcast #PurityCulture #ChristianEthics #ChurchAndState #FelonyMurder #LifeAfterBelief #HolidayFamilyDrama

In this light-hearted episode, we share funny and honest stories about coming out—whether as gay or atheist—at the family dinner table.Featuring clips from Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcast with Ariana Grande and a comedy bit from Alex Edelman, plus our own Top Five Response Lists.Tune in for relatable, hilarious moments and holiday cheer. To get involved, email us at: CogPodShow@gmail.com\\ LINKS //Videos:Amy Poehler's Good Hang Podcast w/ Ariana Grandehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqF-GLIjzxk#Thanksgiving2025 #ComingOutStories #ComedyPodcast #LGBTQ #HolidayLaughs #AmyPoehler #ArianaGrande #AlexEdelman #TopTenList #FunnyThanksgiving #FamilyDrama #LettermanStyle

How much do you really know about Felony Murder?Think it can't possibly happen to you? Think again.In this eye-opening episode inspired by HBO’s Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, we make a bit of a departure from our religion-focused topics and dive deep into the felony murder rule—how you can be charged with murder even if you didn’t kill anyone. Explore its complex history, infamous cases like Michelle Carter, Ryan Holle, Kevin Reese, Lakeith Smith, and the ElkCo Four. We also cover the Hulu movie The Girl from Plainville, racism in convictions, and current efforts pushing for reform nationwide. Join us as we unpack why felony murder is controversial and what the future could hold for this law.Stay informed and join the conversation about justice and reform.If you'd like to share your story, have questions, or comments, email us at cogpodshow@gmail.com \\ LINKS //Videos:This Week Tonight w/ John Oliver: Felony Murderhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y93ljB7sfcoHow to Get Involved:Innocence Projecthttps://innocenceproject.org/Sign Petitions to Reform or Abolish the Felony Murder Rule: Change.org (search "felony murder petition")https://www.change.orgVolunteer with Advocacy Groups: Felony Murder Elimination Project (FMEP offers chances to volunteer and support reform)https://fmeproject.org/Participate in Reporting, Research, and Advocacy: The Felony Murder Reporting Project (journalist/advocate involvement)https://felonymurderlaws.com/resist/Advocate for Sentencing Reform and Second Chances: FAMM (Families Against Mandatory Minimums) (second chances agenda, advocacy to end mandatory sentencing)https://famm.orgGet Involved with Broader Justice Reform: The Sentencing Project (advocates for humane responses to crime and supports legislative reform)https://www.sentencingproject.org/Volunteer in Victim Support or Legal Aid: Bay Area Legal Aid (pro bono and volunteer legal work, direct support for justice-involved people)https://nlgsf.org/activist-support/Support Victims' Rights Advocacy: National Crime Victim Law Institute (donate, volunteer, promote victims’ rights, mostly remote)https://law.lclark.edu/live/files/9116-national-crime-victim-law-institute-ncvliJoin Grassroots Campaigns: Ben & Jerry’s Foundation (supports national organizing to end felony murder rule)https://benandjerrysfoundation.org/Join or Start Community Action: Solve the Case (help unsolved cases, family, victims, or community members)https://beautifultrouble.org/toolboxPetition for Resentencing/Legal Remedy in California: The Justice Firm (SB 1437 & SB 775 post-conviction relief for felony murder charges)https://ij.org/Volunteer for Cold Case Investigations: Cold Case Foundation (join network, support families and law enforcement)https://projectcoldcase.org/\\ DEFINITIONS //Felony Murder:Felony murder is a legal doctrine that allows a defendant to be charged with first-degree murder if a death occurs during the commission or attempted commission of certain dangerous felonies, such as robbery, burglary, or arson—even if the defendant did not personally kill anyone or intend for a death to happen.The rule holds that anyone participating in an inherently dangerous felony can be held responsible for any fatal outcomes resulting from the crime, regardless of intent or direct involvement in the killing. This means that all participants in the felony can face murder charges if a death occurs, even accidentally or at the hands of another.Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.#FelonyMurder #JohnOliver #CriminalJusticeReform #MichelleCarter #HBO #FelonyMurderReform #RacialJustice #TrueCrime #LastWeekTonight #JusticeSystem

Are you questioning your faith, deconstructing religion, or recovering from religious trauma?In this “Sharing Is Caring” episode, we gathered some of our favorite resources—YouTube channels, books, online communities, and even a little comedy—for anyone at any stage of secular exploration and healing. Whether you’re battling cognitive dissonance, facing difficult emotions, seeking validation, or ready to laugh again, we’ve got you covered.Featuring YouTube channels like Genetically Modified Skeptic, Theramin Trees, Religion for Breakfast, Monte Mader, DZ Debates, DarkMatter2525, and more.Plus, some resourceful books, subreddits, movies, and support options. Allies, seekers, and survivors welcome.LINKSYouTube Channels:https://youtube.com/@UCG1uayRlzz3ahT8ISRdyw7Q https://youtube.com/@UCJ-vHE5CrGaL_ITEg-n3OeA https://youtube.com/@UCct9aR7HC79Cv2g-9oDOTLw https://youtube.com/@UCCnfG3MKRvo2E3csJTaOI2A https://youtube.com/@UCLhtZqdkjshgq8TqwIjMdCQ https://youtube.com/@UC0rgCXMcxpoHH_fpC8SqOOA #ReligiousTrauma#FaithDeconstruction#Exvangelical#SecularRecovery#AtheistSupport

Ever wondered why all the horrific stories in the Christian bible are considered parables?Have you noticed that your church picks and chooses the verses to read you...like it's a salad bar?This episode gives a fast, clear overview of what a parable really is, where the concept originated, and—most importantly—why Jesus and Christian teachers lean on them so much. Whether you’re curious about biblical symbolism, seeking spiritual insight, or just want answers to age-old questions, get the basics on parables in every Christian tradition. Perfect for ex-fundamentalists, seekers, and anyone questioning church narratives.Drop your experience in the comments. Join the conversation: cogpodshow@gmail.com\\ DEFINITIONS //Apologetics:Apologetics is the reasoned defense of a particular set of beliefs, most commonly religious ones like Christianity. It involves using systematic argumentation, logic, and evidence to address challenges and questions, with the goals of strengthening believers' faith and helping to persuade non-believers.Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.#Parables #Christianity #BibleStudy #atheist #cogpod #atheistpodcast #cognitivedissonance

In this episode of CogPod, we unpack one of America's most vital yet misunderstood principles — the separation of church and state.From its constitutional roots to today’s legal battles, we explore why this safeguard exists to protect freedom FOR EVERYONE — of all faiths (or no faith at all).Featuring discussion on the work of the Freedom From Religion Foundation (https://ffrf.org), this is an essential conversation about democracy, belief, and the rights of all citizens and how misinformation can cause Cognitive Dissonance.Drop your experience in the comments. Join the conversation: cogpodshow@gmail.com\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.#CogPod #SeparationOfChurchAndState #FreedomFromReligion #Constitution #ReligiousFreedom #ChurchAndState #AmericanDemocracy #CivilRights #FFRF #FaithAndFreedom #USConstitution #CriticalConversation

Religion is the original multilevel marketing scheme. Modern MLMs got their inspiration for their structure and control of others directly from religion.Have you noticed the overlap between faith and MLM culture?Drop your experience in the comments.Join the conversation: cogpodshow@gmail.com\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.

Musician and producer Sam Stone from Brisbane, Australia shares his journey from growing up in a large fundamentalist Christian family to finding freedom through music and secular thinking.We discuss how religion hampered his initial musical growth, the steps in his deconstruction of the religion he was raised in, and the courage to walk away.Sam will return to CogPod with recommended books, videos, and channels for those questioning their faith and wanting assistance in deconstructing their indoctrination.If you'd like to share your story, have questions, or comments, email us at cogpodshow@gmail.com\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.#ExChristian #ReligiousTrauma #FaithDeconstruction #CogPod #ExFundamentalist #LeavingReligion #AtheistJourney #ReligiousControl #MusicAndFaith #exvangelical

Are you feeling out of place in the modern dating world as a secular single or non-believer? We break down the realities, challenges, and advantages of secular dating in 2025. From deciding when to disclose your beliefs to building real compatibility in mixed-belief relationships, this episode unpacks the stats, stories, and expert advice for nonreligious singles.Join the conversation: cogpodshow@gmail.com\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.#seculardating #dating2025 #singles #relationships #atheist #agnostic #compatibility #onlinedating #modernlove #deconstruction #exvangelical #datingadvice #love #secularism #romanticrelationships #datingculture

Exposing the myths of Christian nationalism in America—it’s not how our country started.We dive deep into the legal, historical, and psychological impacts of Christian nationalist propaganda, including cognitive dissonance and constitutional conflict.Discover why these teachings are not only false but a danger to pluralism and freedom.

Mandisa Thomas, president of Black Nonbelievers, joins CogPod to talk about building a supportive secular community for Black Americans living without religion—even in the Bible Belt.She shares her journey, the challenges of “coming out” as a nonbeliever, and how Black Nonbelievers offers understanding and connection for those who feel isolated.We discuss how the current administration’s policies threaten non-profit organizations, and why collaboration is vital for survival.For anyone wrestling with faith, family, and identity, Mandisa’s story offers hope, practical advice, and a path toward true community. Discover how to get involved, find support, and connect with like-minded Black atheists and humanists.\\ RESOURCE //Black Nonbelievers is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia with affiliates in several other states. Visit their website below for information, to donate, and for event dates and locations.https://BlackNonbelievers.org\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.If you'd like to share your story, have questions, or comments, email us at cogpodshow@gmail.com#BlackNonbelievers #BlackAtheists #SecularCommunity #Humanism#MandisaThomas #BlackNonbelievers #BibleBeltAtheist

Join us as we dive into the bizarre world of Christian Science - a religious sect founded by Mary Baker Eddy in 1879 that rejects modern medicine in favor of prayer healing.We explore the strange beliefs that have led to countless preventable deaths (even of some well-known celebrities), especially among children, and examine why this once-thriving movement is now rapidly dying out.From denying the reality of matter itself to practicing “absent treatment” healing from a distance, Christian Scientists hold some of the most unusual doctrines in modern Christianity.We’ll uncover the dark history of this sect, including the persistent legend that founder Mary Baker Eddy was buried with a live telephone “just in case,” and discuss why medical professionals and child welfare advocates continue to sound the alarm about their dangerous practices.This isn’t just religious history - it’s a cautionary tale about what happens when faith replaces facts, and the tragic consequences that follow.YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CogPod-Show\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.If you'd like to share your story, have questions, or comments, email us at cogpodshow@gmail.com

We discuss the clinical psychology behind the MAGA movement - not to attack, but to understand how cognitive dissonance and motivated reasoning affect brain processing when political identity becomes core to personal identity.Drawing from peer-reviewed research and insights from leading clinical psychologists we explore:🧠 How motivated reasoning rewires information processing🧠 The neuroscience of political identity formation🧠 Cognitive dissonance and reality perception🧠 Epistemic closure in modern political movements🧠 Why facts alone can’t change deeply held beliefsThis isn’t about left vs right or even politics in general - it’s about understanding the fascinating psychological mechanisms that make normally rational people susceptible to belief systems that conflict with observable reality.We discuss the clinical research without judgment, focusing on the brain science behind cult/political psychology.Sources Referenced:• Clinical psychology research on motivated reasoning• Neuroscience studies on political identity• Peer-reviewed studies on cognitive dissonance• Expert analysis from licensed psychologists\\ RESOURCES //1. Leaving MAGA OrganizationWebsite: https://leavingmaga.orgFounded by: Rich Logis, a former MAGA insider who was a podcaster, activist, and true believer for seven years before leaving in 2021What They Offer:• A safe, non-judgmental community specifically for those leaving MAGA or having doubts• Free support groups for both people leaving MAGA and their friends/family• Testimonials from former members• Resources for loved ones trying to help someone leaveContact: Available through their website at leavingmaga.org, and they’re active on Instagram @leavingmaga and Twitter @PerfectOurUnionRecent Activity: They’re currently running regular support groups - as recently as September 18, 2025, they hosted a support group for friends and family of MAGA members.2. Freedom of Mind Resource CenterWebsite: https://freedomofmind.comFounded by: Dr. Steven Hassan, a licensed mental health professional and cult recovery expertWhat They Offer:• Strategic Interactive Approach (SIA) - a non-coercive method for helping people recognize undue influence• Recovery Coaching - one-on-one sessions for people leaving destructive groups and controlling relationships• Intervention Services - professional help for families trying to help loved ones• Educational resources including his book “The Cult of Trump”Expertise: Dr. Hassan is a former cult member himself (Unification Church/“Moonies”) who has become a leading expert in cult recovery. He specifically addresses MAGA as exhibiting cult-like characteristics.YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CogPod-Show\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.If you'd like to share your story, have questions, or comments, email us at cogpodshow@gmail.com

Former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow’s inconsistency–even with prayer, atheist NFL players like former NFL punter Chris Kluwe's thoughts on religion, and the Buffalo Bill's Stevie Johnson’s infamous "God tweet" after dropping a game-winner—we discuss prayer, faith, and divine intervention in professional sports.We question how, with both team's players praying to God before a game, how does their God determine the loser?We also read a couple of recent listener/viewer mail.Plus, we explore the cognitive dissonance of athletes thanking God for touchdowns while ignoring concussions and injuries. A raw discussion about belief, doubt, and whether the universe is taking bets on player's lives.YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CogPod-Show\\ RESOURCES //Freedom From Religion Foundation: https://ffrf.orgCounseling and TherapyThrough the Valley Therapy (Christian-integrative approach):https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/post/healing-the-wounds-of-purity-culture-a-christian-integrative-therapist-s-perspectiveMindful Connection Counseling (trauma-informed faith recovery):https://mindfulconnectioncounseling.com/this-is-a-post-testSea Glass Counseling – EMDR for purity culture survivors:https://www.seaglassohio.com/therapytools/p/purity-culture-emdr-cognitions Clinical themes:https://www.seaglassohio.com/therapytools/p/purity-culture-clinical-themes Support Communities & Survivor GroupsTears of Eden (spiritual abuse survivor network):https://www.tearsofeden.org/purityculturePurity Culture Survivors Support Group (Divorcing Religion):https://www.divorcing-religion.com/service-page/purity-culture-survivors-support-group Outreach and Sexual Health RecoveryOur Bodies Ourselves – Healing from purity culture:https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/unlearning-shame-relearning-pleasure-resources-on-healing-from-purity-cultureSafeTalk Therapy’s resources for recovering from purity culture:https://www.safetalktherapy.com/blog/top-8-resources-for-a-thriving-sex-life-after-purity-culture YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CogPod-Show\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.If you'd like to share your story, have questions, or comments, email us at cogpodshow@gmail.com

Claudine shares her eye-opening experiences at a Christian school—where girls were pressured to save their “gift” for marriage, facing intense scrutiny and psychological oppression.This episode exposes the damaging consequences of purity culture: double standards for boys and girls, religious hypocrisy, and the policing of girls’ clothing.Hear firsthand how these beliefs impact self-worth, relationships, and mental health, and join the conversation challenging patriarchal systems within religious communities. Perfect for those deconstructing faith or curious about how purity culture affects women today.YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CogPod-Show\\ RESOURCES //Counseling and TherapyThrough the Valley Therapy (Christian-integrative approach):https://www.throughthevalleytherapy.com/post/healing-the-wounds-of-purity-culture-a-christian-integrative-therapist-s-perspectiveMindful Connection Counseling (trauma-informed faith recovery):https://mindfulconnectioncounseling.com/this-is-a-post-testSea Glass Counseling – EMDR for purity culture survivors:https://www.seaglassohio.com/therapytools/p/purity-culture-emdr-cognitions Clinical themes:https://www.seaglassohio.com/therapytools/p/purity-culture-clinical-themesSupport Communities & Survivor GroupsTears of Eden (spiritual abuse survivor network):https://www.tearsofeden.org/purityculturePurity Culture Survivors Support Group (Divorcing Religion):https://www.divorcing-religion.com/service-page/purity-culture-survivors-support-group Outreach and Sexual Health RecoveryOur Bodies Ourselves – Healing from purity culture:https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/unlearning-shame-relearning-pleasure-resources-on-healing-from-purity-cultureSafeTalk Therapy’s resources for recovering from purity culture:https://www.safetalktherapy.com/blog/top-8-resources-for-a-thriving-sex-life-after-purity-culture\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.If you'd like to share your story, have questions, or comments, email us at cogpodshow@gmail.com

We’re not experts—just citizens who care. This impromptu discussion looks at the mental health crisis behind so many violent outbursts like the tragedy at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis yesterday morning (8/27/25).Please join the discussion in our attempts to help others and hopefully avoid another tragedy.YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CogPod-ShowIf you or someone you know needs help, call or text:Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988orMental Health Hotline at 866-903-3787You are not alone. Let’s talk honestly, find hope, and help make change.#mentalhealth #minnesota #gunviolence #stopviolence

Why do ‘thoughts and prayers’ actually make us feel worse?We dive into the psychology of performative empathy, empty gestures, and how these responses harm both givers and receivers. The science behind why genuine care beats hollow sympathy every time.YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CogPod-ShowATTENTION: This episode of CogPod was recorded yesterday, way before the horrible shooting in Minnesota today (8/27/25). Normally this would be bad timing, but the more people get angry about these mass shootings in America, the better. Let's change these laws for innocent children at the very least!\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.If you'd like to share your story, have questions, or comments, email us at cogpodshow@gmail.com

Are you curious about how religious leaders and communities talk about atheists—and why?In Episode 03 of CogPod, we dive deep into the fear tactics and common phrases used by preachers and congregants to discourage believers from associating with non-believers.Claudine shares powerful personal stories from her time as a Christian, revealing what she was taught and believed about atheists. We break down the best-known warnings, myths, and social pressures wielded inside and outside of sermons—and discuss the psychology behind them.Whether you’re a former believer, an atheist, or just interested in religious culture, this episode will inform, challenge, and entertain.YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CogPod-Show\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance:A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.If you'd like to share your story, have questions, or comments, email us at cogpodshow@gmail.com

Do you feel torn between what you’ve been taught and what feels true? This episode explores cognitive dissonance within the context of faith, superstitions, and recovery from religious trauma.With clinical insight, personal stories, and actionable steps, we’ve created a safe space to question, heal, and re-align your beliefs.Our special guest is a doctor of psychology. She explains how religion uses fear and superstition to control.Is cognitive alignment possible after leaving faith behind?Our guests break down the step-by-step mental “deprogramming” journey, sharing tips, psychological support, and practical advice for reclaiming your mind and life.YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CogPod-Show\\ DEFINITIONS //Cognitive Dissonance: A psychological state in which a person experiences discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values at the same time. This tension often motivates individuals to resolve the inconsistency, either by changing their beliefs or behaviors.Cognitive Alignment:A mental state where a person’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions are consistent and in harmony with each other, reducing internal conflict and promoting psychological comfort. Cognitive alignment is the opposite of cognitive dissonance, reflecting a well-integrated sense of self and worldview.If you'd like to share your story, have questions, or comments, email us at cogpodshow@gmail.com