Glenn responds to a listener’s question:
“How do you replace religious existential dread for more ‘real’ existential dread about climate crisis, political and economic unrest, and what that means for the future of a young person.”

Fill out the Mindfulness Survey here.

Support the podcast on Patreon here

Ep 784 – Former Mormon Musings on Existential Dread

The Philosophies of Men, Mingled with Humor

Society & Culture

Personal Journals

History

Philosophy

Places & Travel

Religion & Spirituality

Other

Spirituality

Christianity

Buddhism

Hinduism

Judaism

Islam

Welcome to the latest episode of “The Spiritual Heretic,” where Glenn and Josh delve into the profound and often controversial realm of spiritual heresy. In this episode, they explore the deeply ingrained boundaries and containers placed on questioning and exploring within various belief systems, particularly focusing on the influences from their own backgrounds and broader societal norms.
Josh shares his personal experiences growing up in a rigid religious environment and how stepping outside those boundaries revealed a universal tendency to restrict open discussions. The conversation highlights the importance of honest discourse and the need to break down these barriers to foster genuine human connection and understanding.
Glenn and Josh also discuss the nuances of spiritual heresy, defining it as a rebellion against established dogma and a quest for deeper understanding beyond traditional perceptions. They emphasize the significance of holding space for individual experiences while challenging the limitations imposed by conventional beliefs.
Throughout the episode, the hosts engage in a dynamic dialogue about the intersection of spiritual and material realities, the impact of cultural relativism, and the role of personal ethics in navigating these complex topics. This episode invites listeners to join the journey of questioning, exploring, and redefining their own spiritual paths.
Tune in to this thought-provoking discussion that aims to inspire a deeper sense of curiosity, compassion, and inclusivity in the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.
In this episode, Glenn and Josh invite you to challenge your perceptions, explore beyond the known, and embrace the heretic within. Join them as they navigate the intricate landscape of spiritual heresy and its implications for personal growth and societal transformation.

Ep 868 – The Spiritual Heretic P4: Why Spiritual?

In this episode of “The Spiritual Heretic” series, Glenn and Josh dive into the profound teachings of Alan Watts on the concept of “No Wrong Feelings.” They explore the importance of acknowledging and accepting all emotions, challenging the societal norms that often suppress genuine self-expression. Glenn shares his admiration for Alan Watts and discusses how these ideas have influenced his perspective.
Josh brings his background in Gestalt therapy into the conversation, offering insights into the therapeutic value of confronting and understanding one’s true feelings. Together, they analyze the complexities of human emotions and the impact of judgment and suppression on personal growth.
The episode also delves into the broader theme of heresy, questioning established dogmas and exploring the balance between healthy and unhealthy heresy. Glenn and Josh discuss the value of constructive criticism, empathy, and open-mindedness in challenging societal norms, while cautioning against destructive criticism and misinformation.
Listeners are invited to join Glenn and Josh as they navigate these intricate topics, seeking deeper understanding and personal growth through honest dialogue and reflection.
Key Topics:

* Alan Watts’ philosophy of “No Wrong Feelings”
* The therapeutic approach to emotions in Gestalt therapy
* The role of heresy in challenging societal norms
* The balance between healthy and unhealthy heresy

Mentioned in This Episode:

* Alan Watts’ teachings
* The paradoxical theory of change in Gestalt therapy
* The potential biases in using tools like ChatGPT for analysis
* Upcoming discussions on Slavoj Žižek’s “Pervert’s Guide to Ideology” and other heretical topics

Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation that encourages embracing all feelings and questioning the status quo for deeper personal and societal growth.

Ep 867 – The Spiritual Heretic P3: Alan Watts No Wrong Feelings

Welcome to “The Spiritual Heretic, Part 2” where we dive deep into the complexities of belief, ideology, and the human experience. In this episode, titled “Conspiracy Theories: Unpacking Ideological Warfare,” Glenn Ostlund and Josh Neal take you on an insightful journey into the world of conspiracy theories.
We explore how conspiracy theories function as tools of ideological control and propaganda, dissecting their impact on the human psyche and societal structures. Drawing from personal experiences, particularly our departure from Mormonism, we highlight the universal nature of these phenomena and their relevance to all human societies.
Key topics discussed include:
– The function of conspiracy theories in controlling narratives
– The parallels between conspiracy theories and religious dogma
– The psychological mechanisms behind belief systems and their defense
– The concept of heresy in society and its role in maintaining ideological boundaries
Join us as we critically examine the structures and functions of conspiracy theories, challenge the dogmas that shape our world, and encourage open, critical inquiry. This episode will provide you with a fresh perspective on the hidden battles for ideological supremacy and the importance of questioning established truths.
 
#ConspiracyTheories #Ideology #HumanExperience #TheSpiritualHeretic #QuestionDogma #CriticalThinking #Psychoanalysis #BeliefSystems #Heresy #NarrativeControl

Ep 866 – The Birth of the Spiritual Heretic P2: Conspiracy Theories?

In this episode of “Infants on Thrones,” hosts Josh and Glenn dive deep into the essence of heresy as a vital and healthy force within both the human body and society.
Drawing metaphors from biology, they discuss how T cells and osteoblasts function to maintain health by addressing aberrant cells and weak bone tissue, respectively. In parallel, they explore how heretical thinking serves to critique and challenge rigid ideologies, promoting growth and resilience.
Josh and Glenn emphasize the importance of questioning protected ideas and the social structures that guard them. They delve into the complexities of heresy, contrasting it with the often defensive and aggressive reactions from those who benefit from unchallenged ideologies. They navigate the fine line between personal self-improvement and the critique of external systems, advocating for a balance that fosters both individual and collective well-being.
The episode also touches on the role of resistance in therapy and societal discourse. Josh, drawing from his experience as a Gestalt therapist, explains how resistance can indicate underlying needs and reactions, both in therapeutic settings and broader social interactions. This conversation highlights the challenges of engaging with deeply entrenched beliefs and the courage required to question them.
As they prepare to tackle taboo topics in future episodes, Josh and Glenn consider the format of their podcast, pondering the possibility of engaging with listeners’ experiences and exploring controversial subjects. The discussion sets the stage for a series that promises to be thought-provoking, challenging, and unapologetically heretical. Join Josh and Glenn as they embark on a journey to uncover hidden truths, dismantle ideological barriers, and promote a healthier, more open-minded society. Whether you’re a fellow heretic or a curious listener, this episode invites you to question, critique, and grow.

Ep 865 – The Birth of the Spiritual Heretic P1: Why Heresy?

Episode 864 of Infants on Thrones delves into the intriguing world of past life regression therapy in “Past Life Regression Therapy: A Case Study in Self Discovery.” Join us as we explore a thought-provoking session where hypnotherapy opens the door to deep self-reflection and personal narratives that transcend the boundaries of time and identity. This episode offers a vivid exploration of how past life regression can serve as a powerful tool for emotional healing and self-awareness. Through a detailed case study, we unpack the complexities of the therapy process, examine the interplay between therapist and client, and discuss the philosophical implications of memories and experiences that may span multiple lifetimes. Whether you’re a skeptic, a curious listener, or someone interested in the potentials of alternative therapies, this episode provides a unique lens on the human psyche and the stories we tell ourselves. Tune in to challenge your perceptions and perhaps discover something new about the mystery of human consciousness.

Ep 784 – Former Mormon Musings on Existential Dread

Download our free app to listen on your phone