Real Clear

Therapists Gone Wild

SUBSCRIBE FOR FULLCould holding progressive social justice attitudes be inadvertently contributing to a rise in mental health issues? Dr. Klein delves into a Scandinavian study that suggests a correlation between these beliefs and increased rates of depression and anxiety, particularly among women. Equally compelling is the debate stirred by a Wall Street Journal article, which argues for a redefinition of sociopathy as a neurological difference rather than a moral failing. The fabric of psychotherapy is being stretched and reshaped as we examine the call to decolonize mental health practices.  The Freud Museum's decision to host an event with a pro-Palestine campaigner further exemplifies the current tension between politics and psychoanalysis.  Support the show

Dr. Graham Spruiell: The Threat of Centralized Planning, Power, and Medicine

Dr. Graham Spruiell sheds light on how legislation such as the HIPAA Act and the Affordable Care Act reshape the confidential bond between patient and clinician. We traverse the challenging terrain that clinicians face, from the threat to the survival of private practices to the pressure of adopting a cash-only model or conforming to Medicare rates. We discuss implications these shifts have on the autonomy of healthcare providers, dissecting the power dynamics that now govern the exchange of health information. We confront the contentious infiltration of woke ideologies into the domain of psychiatry, questioning the integrity of licensure and the liberties of academic thought. We critically analyze the alignment of mental health professionals' code of ethics with these prevailing narratives, measuring the impact on professional standards and patient care. Drawing from the wisdom of the Constitution and the classic tale of Antigone, we illuminate the age-old struggle between moral conviction and legal jurisdiction, pondering the balance between individual sovereignty and collective governance.Finally, our discussion culminates with the societal consequences of endorsing regression,  rather than championing the growth into autonomous adulthood. Dr. Spruiell imparts his insights into the indispensable role of psychoanalysis in guiding individuals toward resolving inner conflicts and cultivating self-reliance.  Support the show

The State of the Union

Could the State of the Union address have veered any closer to political theater?  This episode peels back the layers of pageantry to analyze the substance of the president's speech, beginning with  Ukraine and the indelible mark of former President Trump's influence on today's political landscape. We question the preparation behind the president's faltering composure and what that signals for the upcoming election.  Support the show

PSA: Should Women be in the Line of Duty? Realities of Male/Female Differences

WARNING: GRAPHIC/VIOLENT CONTENTYOUTUBE VIDEOSUBSCRIBEWhen former officer and martial arts champion Mark Bua joins us, we tackle the heavy-hitting realities of police work that female officers face daily. Bua, with his extensive background, isn't afraid to discuss the disparities in physical capabilities and the potential perils that come with them. He sheds light on societal expectations, the portrayal of women in media, and the pressing need for transparency within police training. Our conversation is a candid exploration of the challenges and dangers that arise in the line of duty for female officers, as well as the possible escalation of force that comes with backup from their male counterparts.As we navigate through the world of law enforcement training, the dialogue gets even more intense, focusing on the evolving nature of combat training for women. Here, I bring my own psychology expertise to the fore, questioning whether current training is truly equipping female officers for the stark realities of physical confrontations. We scrutinize the support dynamics in high-stakes situations, the effectiveness of solo female officers in such scenarios, and we don't hold back on our skepticism towards the performance of police academy training, especially given the recent troubling incidents that have come to light.Wrapping up, we broaden our horizons to a heated debate on "gender" roles and identity within physically demanding professions. Mark and I explore the implications of non-binary identification and the societal impacts on traditional norms within these fields. We share powerful narratives, like that of former officer Megan McCarthy, and provide practical advice for women on self-defense and personal safety strategies. With a focus on realistic training and tactics, this episode is a thought-provoking journey through the intersection of gender, identity, and the physical demands of policing that is guaranteed to leave you with more than a few questions—and perhaps some answers. Support the show

Cluster B Society with Joshua Slocum

SUBSCRIBE ORONE TIME DONATIONWe're joined by Josh Slocum, delving into the enigma of Cluster B personality disorders. Our conversation traverses the complex terrain of these deeply ingrained disorders, illuminating their ubiquitous influence across politics, media, and personal interactions. We unravel the subtle threads that distinguish personality disorders from other mental health challenges, painting a vivid picture of the behavioral patterns that define Cluster B individuals and how these traits can be magnified in the digital age.Confronting the contentious nature of treatment, we shed light on the trials therapists endure and the hopeful avenues for patient progress. Josh's insights are particularly striking as we dissect the essential role of patient self-awareness, the impact of early childhood trauma, and the intricate dance of the therapist-patient relationship. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone seeking to understand the layered prognoses for those with antisocial tendencies versus those primed for self-reflection. To close our dialogue, we delve into the personal odyssey of our guest, Josh, whose life experiences have profoundly molded his political views and shaped his sense of identity. We grapple with the stark realities of abusive familial dynamics, societal structures reflective of these toxic patterns, and the importance of honoring one's intuition amidst societal pressures. By scrutinizing the notion of 'toxic femininity' in social media and political discourse, we offer a critical perspective on today's cultural climate. This episode is not just a conversation; it's an invitation to challenge and refine our understanding of the world around us. Support the show

Crazy True Stories & Gov Seeking Your Money

SUBSCRIBEThis week's podcast is a crucible of the hot-button issues setting our airwaves on fire. We tear into the New York City attack by illegal immigrants that's thrown a harsh light on the city's bail laws, dissecting not only the incident but the chasm between urban and rural law enforcement perspectives. In the ring of controversy, we weigh in on the societal and sports-related repercussions of men fighting in women's boxing. And if that's not enough to whet your appetite for debate, consider California Governor Newsom's play to demolish three dams!On the home front, a special counsel report raises alarm bells over President Biden's memory lapses, which begs the question: how might this shape legal proceedings and his re-election campaign? Meanwhile, the suggestion of scrapping 401(k) plans stirs a hornet's nest of government overreach and the security of personal finances. Tune in, as we connect these dots to paint a picture of a nation at a pivotal crossroads, where societal norms and governmental decisions collide. Support the show

Real Differences Between Biden & Trump with Prof. Wilfred Reilly

SUBSCRIBE Discover the unexpected parallels between Donald Trump and Joe Biden as political sage Wilfred Reilly returns. Shedding light on the nuanced realities of presidential policies, Wilfred, with his political science prowess, unpacks the layers of bipartisan decision-making. Prepare for a journey that uncovers how Trump's conservative image may contrast with centrist policies like the Platinum Plan, and why Biden's energy policies may not be as divergent as they seem. Our discourse with Wilfred  promises a fresh look at what influences presidential actions, from the sway of advisers to the potential paths of energy independence.The landscape of American politics is fraught with extreme ideologies, but together with Professor Reilly, we scrutinize the effectiveness of the Biden administration amidst these tensions. We navigate the treacherous debates surrounding immigration, border security, and law enforcement, questioning the balance that must be struck between social freedoms and public safety. The conversation doesn't shy away from critiquing both sides of the aisle, pushing past extremist positions to argue for a more pragmatic energy policy that embraces nuclear power. This episode guarantees to challenge preconceptions and offers a candid assessment of potential Republican candidates poised to steer the nation toward rational governance.Finally, we tackle the intricate game of political strategy with Prof. Reilly's expert analysis on maximizing voter registration and turnout. The dialogue unfolds as we deliberate over the risks and rewards of engaging diverse urban audiences versus fortifying rural conservative strongholds. With Wilfred's humor and pragmatism lighting the way, we dissect the unique American political divide, offering insights into the strategic implications of our nation's distinctive political geography. Tune in for a discussion that goes beyond the surface, charting the complexities of voter mobilization and the strategic allocation of political resources, all through the discerning lens of Professor Reilly. Support the show

Gender Issues with Miriam Grossman, M.D.

SUBSCRIBE FOR FULL EPISODEDr. Miriam Grossman steps into the spotlight, bringing forth her seasoned expertise on the perplexing issue of gender ideology and the medicalization of children. Her insight cuts through the noise, unpacking the transformation of gender into a social construct and the startling rise in children identifying as transgender. This is a thought-provoking discussion that challenges the current narrative and lays bare the concerns surrounding the direction of child and adolescent psychiatric care.Amid the exploration of this sensitive topic, we confront the burgeoning phenomenon of detransitioners, whose voices seem lost in the clamor for gender-affirming care. Dr. Grossman sheds light on the potential psychology behind this regret and the social dynamics that could be contributing to a rise in gender dysphoria diagnoses. By bringing critical attention to the work of organizations like the Society for Evidence-Based Gender Medicine, our conversation underscores the necessity of staying abreast of the ever-evolving research in this contentious field.Our dialogue culminates in a candid analysis of the societal repercussions gender ideology has engendered, considering the profound psychological impact and the societal division it perpetuates. Dr. Grossman's commentary encourages a reevaluation of the epistemological shifts we are witnessing—where subjective experiences often overshadow biological realities. The episode ties together with a trove of resources Dr. Grossman has contributed to, from Congressional testimony to podcast features, all aimed at enriching our understanding of this complex and critical issue.Dr. Grossman's books can be purchased on her website and through major retailers:https://www.miriamgrossmanmd.com/https://segm.org/https://www.fairforall.org/open-letters/open-letter-apa/ Support the show

Dr. Jon Mills: The Fate of World Civilization

Join the intellectual odyssey with Professor Jon Mills as we unravel the complex fabric of our world's future in "The End of the World:  Civilization and its Fate." Prepare to be challenged and enlightened as we navigate through a labyrinth of existential crises, from climate cataclysms to the ominous growth of global aggression. With a clear-eyed examination of the global bystander effect, our conversation with the accomplished Canadian philosopher and psychoanalyst unveils the paradoxes and inertia miring humanity's response to these urgent threats. We scrutinize the curious global energy decisions that hinder progress and amplify the dangers looming over civilization's horizon.Venture deeper into the societal fissures with us as we dissect the spike in divisiveness, the troubling resurgence of anti-Semitism, and the disintegration of civil discourse. Professor Mills casts a critical eye on the authoritarian undertones of testimonial epistemology and its impact across the ideological divide, spotlighting the perilous consequences of relegating empirical evidence to the backseat. We traverse the landscape of contemporary social dynamics, exposing the psychological undercurrents that drive the ever-present temptations of tribalism and the worrying potential for global conflict. The tapestry of our discussion weaves together the threads of authoritarian leanings, Cluster B personality trends, and the societal implications of developmental trauma.As our conversation culminates, we emerge with a blueprint for societal healing, underscored by Professor Mills' insights into the salve of tolerance and mutual recognition. We probe the virtues essential for constructing a global community marked by harmony rather than hostility. This episode is a clarion call to those who envision a world where divergent views can coexist peacefully, for listeners seeking a beacon amidst the discord. Professor Mills leaves us not with a sense of despair but with a call to action, championing the virtues of open-mindedness and civility as the cornerstones of a resilient, empathetic society. Support the show

Shattered Shield California’s Law Enforcement Struggles Revealed

SUBSCRIBE TO REAL CLEAR! Imagine staring into the eyes of danger, your life hanging by a thread, and it’s all captured on camera for the world to see. Retired police officer Meagan McCarthy sits down with me to recount the fateful day that left her fighting for her life and her assailant walking free—a verdict that sent shockwaves through the California justice system. We discuss the controversial role that Assembly Bill 3070 played in the jury selection process, and how it could set a dangerous precedent for future trials.Video of her Assault HereThe conversation takes a darker turn as we tackle the shifting sands beneath law enforcement's feet, with policies aimed at defunding the police and their seemingly direct correlation to the spike in violent crimes. Hear from Californians who are adjusting to this new landscape where the thin blue line gets thinner every day. We also share a cautionary tale of a defund-the-police advocate whose perspective was dramatically altered after becoming the victim of the very crime she believed to be preventable. These personal stories underline the societal transformation that is redefining our younger generation's views on crime and authority.In our closing segment, the spotlight shifts to the profound challenges impeding police recruitment and retention. Meagan and I lay bare the truth behind lowered entry standards, the battles with mental health many officers face, and the complexities of policing in an era where respect for the badge is eroding. As Meagan contemplates a foray into politics, we ponder the potential for her experiences to enrich and shape public service. The episode is not just a call to action but a testament to the resilience of those who serve and protect, and a reminder of the critical support they require. Join us for a deeply moving journey into the heart of these pressing issues. Support the show