Is Weird Al one of the Three Nephites? Eric Herman (aka “Weird Alma”) has done the Mormon/not-Mormon thing and put a lot of it to music. This is his story.  Enjoy.
 

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Ep 727 – The Life and Times of Weird Alma (aka Eric Herman)

An entertaining podcast about self-awareness and discovery. The title Infants on Thrones is an homage to the Mormon Founder Joseph Smith who said, in his lesser-known King Follet discourse, that eternity is full of thrones, upon which dwell thousands of children, reigning on thrones of glory, with not one cubit added to their stature. It is a funny image, but it also suggests that we, as amateur podcasters, do not really have all the answers we may think we do. We can't take ourselves too seriously. We are also Infants on Thrones.

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In this learning-out-loud episode, Glenn dives into the fascinating world of Slavoj Žižek's "The Pervert's Guide to Ideology" and explores the intricate interplay of ideas from Hegel, Lacan, and Marx. Glenn shares his preparation process for an upcoming discussion with Josh, blending a healthy dose of curiosity and philosophical inquiry. Glenn also discusses the upcoming migration of the "Infants on Thrones" podcast to a new host and ensures listeners can continue enjoying the content seamlessly. Visit infantsonthrones.com for all episodes and updates. Join Glenn on this intellectual journey as he unpacks the complexities of ideology, consciousness, and human experience through the lens of Hegelian dialectics, Lacanian psychoanalysis, and Marxist critique. Glenn even brings contemporary neuroscience into the mix, providing a holistic understanding of how our internal and external worlds shape our reality. Show Notes:Introduction:Glenn introduces the episode and shares his learning process in preparation for discussing Žižek's "The Pervert's Guide to Ideology" with Josh.Announcement about the migration of the "Infants on Thrones" podcast to a new host and how listeners can stay updated.Žižek Primer:Glenn's curiosity-driven exploration of Žižek's ideas.The blending of Hegel, Lacan, and Marx in Žižek's philosophy.Glenn's interaction with ChatGPT to deepen his understanding.Deep Dive into Philosophical Concepts:Hegel's dialectics: Thesis, antithesis, and synthesis.Lacanian psychoanalysis: The mirror stage, symbolic order, and repetition compulsion.Marx's critique of capitalism: Class structures, alienation, and exploitation.Neuroscience Integration:How neuroscience supports the dynamic interplay between internal (X) and external (Y) forces.The concept of neuroplasticity and its implications for human experience.X plus Y equals Z - The Formula of Perfection:Glenn's theory explained through the lens of Hegel, Lacan, Marx, and neuroscience.The interplay between internal forces (X), external forces (Y), and the resulting synthesized experience (Z).Gestalt Therapy and Stoic Principles:How Gestalt therapy focuses on awareness, integration, and empowerment.The Stoic emphasis on virtue, rationality, and emotional resilience.Application of Gestalt and Stoic principles to the X plus Y equals Z formula.Potential Heresies and Reactions:Exploration of how these philosophical ideas might challenge established dogmas and trigger defensive reactions.Conclusion:Glenn's reflections on the preparation process and anticipation for the upcoming discussion with Josh.Encouragement for listeners to engage with these ideas and explore their own intellectual curiosity.Tune in for an enlightening episode that blends philosophy, neuroscience, and personal reflection, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding human experience as a dynamic, evolving process. Don't miss this intellectual adventure with Glenn on The Spiritual Heretic Podcast!

Ep 869 - The Creator's Guide to X=Y=Z: A Zizek Primer

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 727 – The Life and Times of Weird Alma (aka Eric Herman)

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