In this episode: I explore the concept of suppression and how it affects us personally, in families, and on a societal scale. We explore how suppressing ideas, emotions, and beliefs can lead to fragmentation and toxicity. Drawing from personal insights, psychological observations, and real-world examples, I discuss the dangers of censorship, fear-based control, and the societal consequences of suppressing inconvenient truths.Suppression and censorship in personal, family, and societal context...
In this episode: I talk to two incredible women who are leading the charge to redefine how we think about and legislate consent—Joyce Short and Nina Lucas of the Consent Awareness Network, or CAN. If Joyce Short gets her way, both “Yes Means Yes” and “No Means No” will be stricken from our laws. She is a sexual assault survivor and the author of 4 books that can turn our human right to consent into a civil right backed by law. She is the founder and Chief Executive of the Cons...
In this episode: How my film, "What the Bleep Do We Know?!" led to a weird encounter with a clinical psychologist on a yacht. My eventual induction into NXIVM and my confusion about Keith Raniere's 'Sex Den'. I talk about death anxiety, power dynamics, and the behavior of leaders who claim to have achieved a higher state of consciousness yet engage in questionable practices. Support the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official po...
What happens when the subconscious drags you back into the cult you’ve left behind? In this episode, I share a vivid dream where I was back in the cult—a surreal journey that left me reflecting and exploring the parallels between my dream and the troubling patterns I see in the world today. This episode isn’t just about a dream; it’s about what the dream represents. It’s about confronting the relationships between my cult experiences and the societal “rules” that feel eerily similar, and unpa...
In this episode: I use the comic, Asterix and Obelix as a metaphor to explore societal beliefs and the consequences of questioning established norms. I talk about how the fear of the sky falling and the invention of the 'special helmet' mirrors contemporary issues of belief and conformity. Also, we talk shit about the skydeniers and the anti-helmets.Support the showThe views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast...
In this episode, I explore the concept of fear-based manipulation and control, discussing how fear and trauma have historically been used to bind individuals to leaders, ideologies, and movements. I reference key thinkers like Matthias Desmet and Hannah Arendt, providing historical examples such as the Cultural Revolution in China, Stalin's Great Purge, and the Salem witch trials. I emphasize the role of media in shaping perceptions of fear and the psychological dynamics of coercive control a...
Former Hollywood actor, David Sutcliffe discusses his journey of self-discovery, transitioning from acting to somatic therapy, and the struggles of authenticity and identity. He talks about the role of pain in healing, the complexities of the victim mentality, and the acceptance of both good and evil within ourselves. The conversation emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness and personal growth, highlighting the challenges and rewards of facing one's inner darkness. We delve into the ...
In this episode: Richard Grannon and I delve into the complexities of ideology, exploring its definitions, psychological impacts, and its relationship with beliefs. We discuss the nuances between having beliefs and being ideologically captured, the role of utopianism in ideology, and how these concepts relate to cult dynamics and narcissism. We also touch on the importance of developing an internal locus of control and the personal journey of understanding one's beliefs and ideologies. W...
In this episode: Peter Boghossian and I delve into the complexities of belief systems, the importance of open dialogue, and the role of education in shaping our understanding of the world. We discuss the challenges posed by ideological capture, the significance of epistemology, and the need for civil discourse in a polarized society. Throughout the discussion, we emphasize the importance of acknowledging mistakes, the dangers of clinging to beliefs, and the necessity of curiosity and humility...
My Thoughts on Cult Mentality and Moral Dilemmas – Alison Mack, NXIVM, and Beyond In this episode: I dive into some deep and personal reflections about the dangers of avoiding moral questions, both in cults and in society at large. Drawing from my own experiences with NXIVM, I talk about Alison Mack, her attempts to question her role, and how Keith Raniere manipulated her into silence. I also explore how this same kind of gaslighting happens beyond cults – in politics, social movements, and e...
In this episode: I sit down with Richard Grannon to dive deep into the power and relevance of the Socratic Method in today's polarized world. Building on themes from my previous episode "The Rage of the Empath" we explore how critical thinking, open dialogue, and intellectual humility can help us navigate complex issues and conflicting viewpoints.Socratic Method: We unpack the ancient Greek approach to dialogue, where both parties must first fully understand each other's positions before enga...
The Dangers of Intolerance: Culty Behavior in Today's WorldIn this episode, I delve into the unsettling parallels between cult behavior and the current climate of intolerance we see online and in society. Drawing from my experiences as a whistleblower against NXIVM and my understanding of manipulative dynamics, I explore how rigid ideologies and "thought policing" mirror the very patterns of control used by cults.Key Points Discussed:Cults and Boundaries: How cult leaders establish unspoken r...
In this episode: I ruminate on the lack of justice in certain situations, specifically focusing on a disturbing case involving a trainer at a gym. The trainer engages in manipulative and predatory behavior, including blackmailing clients and sharing explicit videos without consent. Despite clear crimes being committed, law enforcement has been unresponsive. Also BTW - The contrast between the trainer's charming facade and his conscienceless actions is mind-boggling.Note: A few details have be...
In this episode: I retell the story of "The Emperor's New Clothes" by Hans Christian Anderson. Drawing parallels to our modern society, I explore concepts such as cognitive dissonance, cultic behavior, gaslighting, mass delusion, and the sunk cost fallacy. There are dire consequences for speaking the truth in a society that values conformity and obedience. I question the manipulation of public opinion and the suppression of dissenting voices. 00:00 Introduction02:27 The Emperor's New Clothes0...
In this episode: I continue my discussion with Producer/Writer Adam G. Simon - about A.I. this time. We look at the ethical implications of A.I. and the lack of regulations and ethical constraints in its development. Adam discusses the state of Hollywood, describing it as a corrupt industry driven by money and power. He explores the impact of A.I. on storytelling and expresses his worries about the loss of creativity and the homogenization of content. We discuss Nolan A.I. - a creative ...
In this episode: I talk to Adam G. Simon, a screenwriter, producer, and actor. We discuss Adam's background as a bodyguard and close protection specialist, his experiences in the Mormon Church, and his journey of leaving the church. We also touch on the investigations department within the church and the control it exerts over its members. We explore themes of abuse, manipulation, and the fear of leaving a religious community. Adam discusses his journey from Mormonism to questioning and ...
In this Episode: I chat with Richard Grannon about the concept of narcissistic psychopathy and its impact on power structures and society. He delves into the characteristics of narcissistic psychopaths, their delusional and power-hungry nature, and their ability to manipulate and control others. The discussion highlights the dangers of narcissistic psychopathy becoming the dominant influence in societal structures and the need for cynicism and resistance. It also touches on the role of fantas...
In this episode: A conversation with Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, Edward Dutton. We cover a wide range of topics, including the seminar on Narcissistic Psychopathy we just completed, the background of Professor Dutton, discussions on autism, the concept of heresy, controversial views, the adaptive nature of religion, and the influence of intelligence on manipulation and societal dynamics. The conversation delves into the societal shift towards dogma, the psychology of giving power to...
In this episode: I interview Rob van Vuuren, a comedian and actor known for his character Namaste Bae. We discuss the origins of the character, the comedy scene in South Africa, and the dangers of certainty and cult-like behavior. Rob shares how he uses comedy to process the absurdity and insanity of everyday life. We also touch on the global appeal of alternative healing and the importance of vulnerability in comedy. Rob discusses his experiences as an artist and comedian, particularly in re...
In this episode: I discuss the concept of the goodness trap, where people become so attached to the idea of being good that they ignore or justify bad behavior. I explore how this trap can be seen in various contexts, such as political extremism, cults, and the protection of institutions. I also highlight the danger of virtue signaling and the need for individuals to critically examine their own ideological teams and actions. I encourage listeners to engage in nuance and self-reflection rathe...
niaakima
Was waiting for a long time for his podcast. Love it. Recommend to anyone who wants to learn more about cults and coercive control.
Lori C
He was grooming her, simple as that. Not being a little boy.
Daphne Brigerman
love u, love the voice, love the "know how" my grandfather was from Portugal. love Portales! keep fighting the good fight