In this all-new, 45th episode of our show, Psychologists John Gartner and Harry Segal interpret Trump’s devastating sociopathic playbook before discussing it all with Joe Walsh–former congressman, warrior for democracy, and host of the daily Social Contract podcast.

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We’ll reflect on the exhausting state of the nation, still just weeks into Trump’s second term, and explore how his psychological disorders continue to jeopardize the nation. And we’ll examine Trump's reliance on mafia-like tactics, with extortion being his go-to, to manipulate everyone around him and project his power at any cost.

As psychologists with deep expertise in personality disorders, our hosts warn of the dire consequences of Trump’s severe narcissistic and psychopathic tendencies—now more apparent than ever.

Throughout the session, the Doctors shed light on Trump's impulsivity and cognitive issues that make him particularly susceptible to influences from nefarious figures such as Vladimir Putin. And we’ll meticulously outline how Trump’s unpredictability undermines international alliances and destabilizes the global order.

As always, our hosts wrap things up by urging listeners to resist complacency and remain vigilant during this rising tide of authoritarianism. Both Gartner and Segal ask us to stand together in a unified front against Trump. It's a call to arms, reminding everyone to stay informed and engaged in our fight for democracy.

Be sure to join us again next time for another awesome episode, when we continue our mission of Shrinking Trump.

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In the latest episode of "Shrinking Trump," hosts Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Siegel dissect the chaotic and dangerous trajectory of Donald Trump's economic and political turmoil. With 44 episodes under their belt, the hosts have been tireless warriors, highlighting Trump's cognitive decline and severe narcissistic personality disorder—and calling out mainstream media for normalizing it every step of the way.

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Drs. Gartner and Siegel expertly examine how the unpredictable nature of Trump's psychological disorders have far-reaching implications, including numerous retaliatory measures from other countries. We’ll also discuss Trump’s increasingly erratic behavior, which is clearly made worse by his broken brain. 

The doctors also make connections between Trump's psychological state, and the resulting impacts on both economic and international fronts. Donald's inability to accept the fact of a looming recession reflects a disconnect—borne from his grandiosity and unfounded self-assurance—cascading into what Dr. Gartner refers to as "the coming Trump depression."

Join us for an eye-popping analysis of Trump's disastrous trade policies, including imposing tariffs on Canada, that are unsettling markets and crashing the economy. Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel break down Trump's mantra "no pain, no gain," arguing that it translates more accurately to "pain and more pain" for the global economy. 

We’ll explore how Trump's behaviors are what one would expect from a Russian asset, questioning his motivations and alliances. Putting a microscope on Trump’s undeniable displays of pro-Russian tendencies, they stress the importance of recognizing how this contradicts longstanding national interests and destabilizes the global order.

Equally, if not more important, our hosts offer a glimpse of hope by touching on the inspiring global resistance that is rising against Trump’s policies. Highlighting significant resistance around the world, they once again echo the collective yearning for restored stability, and an end to this tyranny.

Consider this episode a rallying cry for action, as we urge listeners to stay informed, stay engaged, and be sure to join us next time as we navigate the murky waters of this presidency, right here on Shrinking Trump.

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Psychologists John Gartner and Harry Segal take a close look at that disastrous meeting with Zelensky in the Oval Office before turning to the big picture with George Conway, constitutional lawyer, political activist, and one of the leading lights warning the country about Trump.

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In this newest episode of Shrinking Trump, our hosts analyze the signs of cognitive decline and severe personality disorder seen in Trump’s increasingly erratic and dangerous behavior. And our guest George Conway, a well-known figure in the "Never Trump" movement, shares his insights into the global implications of Trump's psychopathy and inherent sadism. 

We’ll kick off the show with a reflection on the exhausting chaos of Trump's second term, six weeks in. And we take a hard look at the recent meeting between Trump and Zelensky, a pivotal moment when America betrayed its allies and continued its descent into authoritarianism.

Dr. Siegel describes how, in that meeting, Trump’s grandiosity, narcissism, and pathological need for recognition played out with disastrous consequences in real-time. Dr. Gartner breaks down the erratic display—marked by grandiosity, followed by sudden deflation and aggression. 

The hosts expertly explain how Trump’s impulsivity and lack of foresight clearly manifests itself when Trump is threatened, leaving him open to manipulation by figures like J.D. Vance. And the duo emphasizes how Trump’s penchant for authoritarian leaders, like Vladimir Putin, is undoing long-standing alliances and destabilizing the Western World.

Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel close out the show with powerful words, urging our listeners to remain vigilant, active, and informed in this fight against tyranny.

Be sure to join us next week for another all-new episode, where we continue our mission of Shrinking Trump.

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In this intense episode of Shrinking Trump, Dr. John Gartner, and Dr. Harry Siegel, unravel the layers of psychological complexities and political uncertainties stemming from the chaotic shenanigans of Donald Trump and Elon Musk. 

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Our hosts reflect on the week's events, exploring how Trump and Musk’s hypomania and severe narcissism creates a pathological atmosphere, lacking any real compassion.

Through the lens of psychology, Dr. Siegal, and Dr. Gardner, consider Trump's apparent cognitive decline and personality disorder that plays into his constant lying and manipulation. 

Dr. Siegel emphasizes the feeling of betrayal experienced by long-standing allies, pointing out how Trump's erratic geopolitical engagements are sidestepping crucial, longstanding diplomatic protocols.

And Dr. Gardner examines some of federal appointments that have dangerously concentrated executive power in the hands of conspiracy theorists and authoritarians. 

The hosts also analyze recent town hall meetings across the country, where constituents from both sides of the political spectrum have shown a growing anger with Trump’s mayhem and Musk's shadowy involvement in the federal government. This public sentiment, Dr. Gartner asserts, could absolutely sway Trump's approval ratings, which are currently in a rapid decline across multiple polls.

We’ll take a look at the psychology of resilience, and discuss how mounting resistance, seen at these town halls and in protests all over America, offers a critical reminder of the power of persistence in the struggle for democracy.

As always, we urge our listeners to remain vigilant and informed, to combat misinformation and stand up to tyranny. So be sure to join us next week as Dr. Gartner, and Dr. Siegel, continue their mission of Shrinking Trump. 

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Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Segal review the destruction of NATO, the betrayal of Ukraine, and discuss future elections with Joe Jacobson, founder and executive director of the Democratic SuperPAC Progress Action Fund.

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In this latest episode of Shrinking Trump, we’ll dive right into a week of geopolitical surprises. As experts in psychology, our hosts offer a unique perspective into the broken psyche of Donald Trump, and the implications of a NATO conference that had the whole world watching.

Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel reflect on the intense developments surrounding Trump’s collaboration with Elon Musk, leading to disruptions within NATO and unsettling repercussions for Ukraine. The duo, seasoned in clinical psychology, voice their concerns about the psychological undertones and the dangerous precedent set by these global shuffles.

We’ll analyze Trump's alarming behavior, which stems from early signs of dementia and profound personality disorders. Dr. Siegel draws from his deep connections with Europe, and stresses the betrayal that must be felt by our longtime allies.

Our hosts also dissect Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's remarks at the NATO conference, where he essentially forfeited America’s leverage against Russia. The broader national security concerns, hostile appointments, and strained international relationships we’re seeing symbolize a dark shift in America's global standing.

Beyond the chaos, Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel spotlight the rising resistance. Reminding us all of the importance of maintaining awareness and resilience, they encourage listeners to remain informed and engaged in these uncertain times. 

Be sure to join us next week, as we continue our mission of Shrinking Trump.

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Dr John Gartner and Dr Harry Segal cover the approaching threat to the rule of law with the help of their guest, Barbara McQuade, law professor at the University of Michigan and frequent legal commentator on MSNBC.

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In this 40th, all-new riveting episode, our hosts analyze another tumultuous week of the Trump administration, headlined by the startling dystopian influence of Elon Musk. We’ll dissect all of the unsettling events that signal a perilous slope towards authoritarianism.

Our guest Barbara McQuaid, a renowned legal expert, joins the show to share her unique perspective on the ongoing constitutional battles and the fragility of our democracy.

We’ll start with a stark reflection on Trump's methodical dismantling of our democracy and discuss the psyche behind Donald’s severe personality disorder and progressing signs of dementia. Dr.’s Gartner and Siegel highlight how Donald's constant lies can have an effect of hypnosis, which is a tactic regularly deployed by authoritarians to instill chaos and fear.

The hosts liken Musk to a contemporary Darth Vader, who is asserting control over vast swathes of Trump’s empire. Donald’s "Hitlerian attack on democracy," as they posit, is only exacerbated by Musk's growing influence. 

Musk’s reckless spree through federal agencies with unchecked hypomania, they explain, is equally alarming to Trump's chaos. We’ll also take a look at the parallels between Musk and other destructive historical figures. 

The doctors caution our listeners to be aware of Elon’s sophisticated use of disinformation, which has too often proved to be nothing more than smoke and mirrors. Dr. Siegel, drawing on his unparalleled psychological insights, urges us to arm ourselves with consciousness and resilience.  

In this new world, Shrinking Trump continues to deliver messages of resilience and awareness, as we dissect the characters and narratives at play. Be sure to tune in next week as Trump’s unraveling saga continues.

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Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Segal try to process the third week of the Trump administration, with its blitzkrieg of illegal actions and absurd declarations, led by the unelected Elon Musk. They get help from Prof. David Ost, political scientist and historian of political history in Eastern Europe. Aside from being a world-renowned expert on Solidarity in Poland, his forthcoming book is about the rise of the far-right and the return of fascism in the west.

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In a whirlwind of disarray and psychological scrutiny, our hosts unearth the frenetic pace at which Trump and his allies are working to dismantle institutions, labeling it a "blitzkrieg against democracy." 

Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel also analyze Elon Musk’s hypomanic energy, sleeplessness, and impulsiveness—that resonate with another hypomanic: Trump. They’ll compare historical figures with similar traits and underscore how this often-dangerous behavior is glamorized in American culture to represent creativity and leadership.

The hosts unravel the complexities behind Musk's unprecedented influence, likening him to a modern-day Darth Vader alongside Trump as the emperor. This paints a vivid picture of a dangerous duo wielding disruptive power across the federal landscape. 

Our guest, David Ost, an expert in Eastern European politics, joins the show to explore how previous authoritarian regimes were toppled by unexpected resistance movements. Drawing lessons from the Polish Solidarity movement, Ost emphasizes the need for collective mobilization.

And as always, through their unique lens, Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel contextualize Trump’s increasingly volatile speeches and decisions as symptoms of cognitive decline—which has been exacerbated by his nearly unrestrained power.

By dissecting the unyielding pace of these authoritarian advances, the psychologists relay a critical message: awareness and resilience are key. So be sure to join us next week as we continue to inform and engage, right here on

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Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Segal review the norm-crashing first week of the Trump administration, before returning to the issue of authoritarianism with Dr. John Bone, professor and author of “The Great Decline,” a study of the historical and psychological forces contributing to the rapid new rise of the right.

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In this all-new episode, our hosts explore Trump’s rapid succession of executive actions, which they describe as a tactic designed to overwhelm the sensory processing capabilities of an entire nation. By inundating the public and political institutions with a relentless stream of outrageous initiatives, Trump's administration seeks to destabilize any opponents, leaving them grasping for time and unable to respond effectively.

We’ll draw parallels to past regimes and examine how Trump’s deliberate psychological warfare creates an atmosphere of chaos and fear. 

Professor John Bone of the University of Aberdeen joins the show to explain how chronic stress can impair our cognitive functions and make us more susceptible to emotions like fear and anger. This psychological state, Bone argues, is intentionally cultivated by Trump’s malignant narcissism—his drive for power unrestrained by norms or legal constraints.

We’ll also take a look at what role economic insecurities and cultural nostalgia plays in determining whether someone is more or less susceptible to Trump-style populism. 

Amidst the chaos, our hosts remind us that resilience lies in understanding these psychological dynamics and finding ways to counteract them. They emphasize the critical role of media and political figures to resist the reigning disinformation and fear. And they’ll better equip us all to handle the road ahead.

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Hosts Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Segal review Trump’s dangerous first day in office with the help of guest Hafiz Rashid, an intrepid journalist from the New Republic, who shares his reporting on the 220 executive orders that went into effect on January 20th.

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In a world where Donald Trump’s return to power threatens to upend our democracy, our hosts tackle the psychological and political implications of his presidency. Drawing on their deep expertise, they bring clarity to the chaos.

Hafiz Rashid, a journalist from the New Republic, joins the show to provide extremely valuable insights into the media's role, and the potential dangers ahead for journalists willing to hold the administration accountable.

We’ll dive right into the troubling start of Donald Trump's new term, which our hosts describe as akin to the rise of a Russian-style oligarchy. Through the unique lens of these top clinical psychologists, we’ll reflect on Trump's inauguration, where tech billionaires like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg set the backdrop. 

We’ll also point out how his inauguration speech, rife with aggressive language, reflects his worsening malignant narcissism. Described as a harbinger of a new “oligarchic” age in America, they analyze Trump’s obvious allegiance to the billionaire class in his speech.

Our hosts don’t hold back when it comes to Elon Musk’s bizarre behavior this week, including his alleged Nazi salute. Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel dissect the psychological dimensions of these kinds of displays of power, and unchecked grandiosity.

We’ll also talk about the incredulous blanket pardons given to the violent Jan 6 insurrectionists, and discuss how Trump’s meme coin is nothing more than a means to “cash in” on his presidency.

As Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel stress, now is the time for resistance-and psychological resilience is more important than ever. So be sure to join us next week as we continue to remain vigilant and proactive in these uncertain times.

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As Donald Trump prepares to assume office again, Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Siegel discuss this unsettling transition period, the nomination of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, and the alarming tactics that have compromised the Senate's confirmation process. 

Alongside our hosts today is Dr. Matt Ditty, a clinical social worker and expert in dialectical behavioral therapy, who brings his eloquence and wisdom to provide tips for managing the psychological challenges of what lies ahead.

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For the last 8 years, our hosts have always been some of the most vocal leaders calling out Trump’s severe personality disorders and cognitive decline. We’ll analyze how this impacts his decision making and discuss the worrying implications of Pete Hegseth's nomination process-where intimidation has pressured senators to overlook crucial background checks, and silence potential witnesses.

Dr. Ditty provides us with unique guidance for managing the stress and anxiety that accompany these challenging political times. An expert in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Diddy prescribes powerful tools to help us maintain our balance amidst such uncertainty. 

Like some of our previous guests, he also stresses the need for radical acceptance to empower individuals—which means acknowledging reality, without passively resigning to it. 

And we’ll examine the ugly phenomenon of Trump’s world of fiction, where corporate media has let his disinformation and lies ultimately shape the narrative. 

Like every one of our episodes, this is a call to action. We are urging listeners to remain vigilant and courageous amidst the coming storm. As society grapples with the normalization of ethically questionable behaviors, maintaining a firm grasp on truth, and our anxiety, becomes more important than ever. That's why the hosts, along with Dr. Ditty, are so strongly advocating for a healthy, grounded, mental well-being.

Be sure to join Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel next time as they speak out about Trump, provide their expert analysis of current events, and empower our audience to stand tall in these tumultuous times.

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