This Machine Kills Fascists

In this episode:

* The mystica is a collective practice that integrates personal reflection, contemplation, and social action.

* Mystica originated in the 1960s through the liberation theology movement in Latin America, emphasizing the liberation of the oppressed and socioeconomic justice.

* This practice is meant to bring grounding, presence, and reflection to political events, connecting participants to the spiritual and collective roots of their struggle.

* Participation is optional, welcoming all faiths, spiritualities, and non-beliefs.

Links and Resources:

* Learn more about Dorian Wallace: www.dorianwallace.com

* Support the podcast via Patreon: www.patreon.com/DoriansMode

Subscribe to the Dorian's Mode Substack:

Follow on link tree: https://linktr.ee/doriansmode

Call to Action:

* If you found this episode insightful, please consider supporting the podcast on Patreon or subscribing to the newsletter for exclusive content. Follow along for more discussions on how music therapy intersects with liberation and justice movements. Thank you for listening!

Next Episode:

Stay tuned for the next episode, in which we'll explore the Foundations of Music Therapy and how music's historical, cultural, and psychological elements contribute to healing practices.

Dorian’s Mode is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this inaugural episode, Dorian Wallace introduces the Liberation Music Therapist podcast, a series focused on the intersections of music therapy and liberation movements. Dorian, a composer, pianist, and board-certified music therapist, shares his background working with marginalized communities, including prisons, hospice care, and survivors of trauma, while outlining how systemic issues like capitalism and colonialism impact mental health. This episode provides an overview of the key concepts that will be explored throughout the series, which integrates political theory, music, and trauma-informed practices to foster individual and collective healing.

Key Topics Covered:

* Introduction to Dorian Wallace and his work in marginalized communities

* Overview of Liberation Music Therapy as a tool for social and systemic healing

* The podcast aims to demystify "capitalist realism" and its impact on mental health.

* Theoretical frameworks: Liberation psychology, feminism, Marxism, post-colonialism, and more

* Personal reflections on how political and social shifts influenced Dorian's music therapy practice

* Series structure: Eight thematic series covering trauma, music therapy in sociopolitical contexts, and applied practices in clinical settings.

Episode Highlights:

* The pressing need for systemic change in mental health care

* The healing power of music when applied with intentional focus

* Importance of addressing societal structures in therapeutic practices

* Acknowledgment of Indigenous lands and the ongoing struggle for Indigenous sovereignty

Links and Resources:

* Learn more about Dorian Wallace: www.dorianwallace.com

* Support the podcast via Patreon: www.patreon.com/DoriansMode

* Follow on link tree: https://linktr.ee/doriansmode

Call to Action:

* If you found this episode insightful, please consider supporting the podcast on Patreon or subscribing to the newsletter for exclusive content. Follow along for more discussions on how music therapy intersects with liberation and justice movements. Thank you for listening!

Study Guide: Episode 1 - Introduction to Liberation Music Therapy

Episode Overview:

In this episode, the foundational concepts of Liberation Music Therapy are introduced. The episode explains how systemic issues such as capitalism and colonialism contribute to mental health crises and how music therapy can serve as a tool for personal and collective healing. The host outlines the structure of the podcast series, which will focus on trauma-informed approaches, political contexts, and applied music therapy practices while integrating interdisciplinary perspectives from social justice movements and political theory.

Key Concepts:

* Liberation Music Therapy

* A therapeutic approach that aims to dismantle systemic oppression (e.g., capitalism, colonialism) and foster both individual and collective healing.

* Seeks to use music therapy in the context of liberation movements, supporting efforts to reclaim autonomy and promote social justice.

* Capitalist Realism and Mental Health

* Capitalist realism refers to the pervasive belief that capitalism is the only viable social and economic system.

* This belief fosters alienation, stress, and anxiety and contributes to mental health crises by creating environments of scarcity and inequality.

* Liberation Music Therapy challenges these assumptions, exploring alternative ways to address mental health within a broader social justice framework.

* Interdisciplinary Approach

* Liberation Music Therapy draws from various fields, including:

* Liberation psychology: Understanding the psychological effects of oppression and exploring liberation as a form of healing.

* Feminism and Marxism: Focusing on power dynamics, class struggle, and gender oppression.

* Post-colonialism: Addressing the psychological and cultural impacts of colonization.

* Critical theory, indigenous thought, and ethnomusicology: Exploring alternative cultural perspectives on healing and wellness.

* These interdisciplinary insights provide a more holistic and critical understanding of healing within oppressed communities.

* Social and Political Contexts of Healing

* Music therapy, traditionally seen as a personal healing tool, can also be used to address collective trauma, particularly in marginalized communities affected by systemic oppression.

* Healing practices must consider the larger societal structures that contribute to trauma, such as racism, poverty, and violence.

* Series Structure of the Podcast

* The podcast is divided into eight thematic series:

* Introduction to Liberation Music Therapy

* Approaches to Trauma and Healing

* Social Forces and Political Context

* Music, Identity, and Sociopolitical Contexts

* Critical Analysis and Addressing Power

* Social Action and Pedagogy in Music Therapy

* Clinical Practice and Applied Liberation Music Therapy

* Conclusion and Future Directions

Major Themes:

* The intersection of Music Therapy and Liberation Movements:

* Music therapy can be an effective tool for both personal healing and collective social justice work by addressing the trauma caused by systemic oppression.

* Trauma-Informed Practice in Marginalized Communities:

* The importance of trauma-informed practices, particularly for marginalized populations, is highlighted. These practices must take into account both the personal trauma and the systemic factors that perpetuate it.

* Challenging Oppression Through Music:

* Music is not just an art form but also a method of challenging social hierarchies and systemic inequalities. It can create space for personal and collective transformation.

Reflection Questions:

* How does capitalist realism influence our understanding of mental health and healing?

* Reflect on the belief that capitalism is the only viable system and how this shapes societal views on mental health care.

* What role can music play in addressing systemic oppression?

* Consider how music, beyond its artistic value, can act as a catalyst for social and political change.

* How do interdisciplinary approaches (e.g., liberation psychology and feminism) enhance the practice of music therapy?

* Explore how integrating diverse fields of thought can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of mental health and healing.

* In what ways can music therapists and mental health professionals engage with political and social justice movements?

* Discuss how professionals can use their skills to support movements aimed at dismantling oppression and promoting systemic change.

Discussion Questions for Group Study:

* Understanding Liberation Music Therapy

* How does Liberation Music Therapy differ from traditional music therapy approaches?

* In what ways can this approach address both individual and systemic forms of trauma?

* Can you think of examples where music has been used as a tool for social or political liberation? Share specific movements or experiences.

* Capitalist Realism and Mental Health

* How does the concept of "capitalist realism" influence our perceptions of mental health and well-being?

* How do you think capitalist structures contribute to issues like alienation, stress, and anxiety?

* What are some ways mental health practices could change if capitalist frameworks did not influence them?

* Music and Collective Healing

* How can music be used as a tool for both personal and collective healing?

* What role does music play in building solidarity among marginalized communities?

* Discuss examples of how music has helped address trauma in specific cultural or political contexts.

* Interdisciplinary Approach to Music Therapy

* Why is it important to incorporate fields such as liberation psychology, feminism, or post-colonialism into music therapy practices?

* How does integrating these disciplines enhance our understanding of mental health and healing?

* What are the challenges of applying a more political or social justice-oriented approach to therapy?

* Trauma-Informed Practice in Marginalized Communities

* Why is trauma-informed practice particularly important in working with marginalized or oppressed populations?

* How can music therapists ensure they are addressing both personal trauma and systemic factors (e.g., racism, poverty, discrimination) in their work?

* What are some examples of trauma-informed music therapy practices you have seen or could imagine implementing?

* Social and Political Forces in Therapy

* How do societal structures (e.g., capitalism and colonialism) impact the accessibility and effectiveness of mental health care?

* Discuss how therapy can be both a personal and a political act. In what ways should therapists engage with social justice movements to support their clients?

* How might understanding the political contexts of a client's life change the approach a therapist takes in their sessions?

* Applying Liberation Music Therapy in Practice

* How do you think music therapists can support liberation movements in their everyday work?

* In what ways can therapists use music to help clients reclaim autonomy and agency, especially those from oppressed communities?

* How might Liberation Music Therapy be applied in different settings, such as prisons, hospitals, or community spaces?

* Reflection on Personal and Collective Responsibility

* Reflect on your own experiences with music. How has music shaped your healing or sense of belonging?

* How can mental health professionals take responsibility for addressing systemic issues in their practice?

* What steps can we take as individuals and as a community to challenge systemic oppression and foster collective healing through music?

Group Activity Idea:

* Music and Liberation Sharing Circle:

* Have each group member share a song or piece of music that has helped them through a personal or collective struggle. After listening, discuss how the music impacted them emotionally, mentally, or even physically. Reflect on how these songs could contribute to a broader social or political movement for healing.

This study guide is designed to help you explore the key themes and concepts from the first episode of Liberation Music Therapist. Use the reflection and discussion questions to deepen your understanding and encourage critical thinking about the role of music therapy in social justice movements and healing practices.

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Composer and music therapist Dorian Wallace shares a trauma-informed, liberation-centered approach to music therapy during a time of rising fascism and systemic harm. Drawing from work in prisons, hospice, and cult recovery, Wallace introduces the Praxis Wheel, a framework for ethical, decolonial, and politically conscious healing practices.

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In this episode, Gwenith Kikkawa sits down with composer, pianist, and music therapist Dorian Wallace to reflect on his recent album release concert for Laeh Su Tel!—a two-part improvised piano project exploring the intersections of personal healing, collective memory, and political resistance. Together, they discuss the energy and emotional impact of the live performance, the creative process behind the albums Psychology in a New Key and A Healing Sound for the People!, and how music functions as a tool for both personal transformation and social change.

Dorian shares stories from the night of the concert, the intention behind each set, and how the music was shaped in real-time in response to the audience, the space, and the historical weight of the songs being interpreted. Gwenith and Dorian also explore themes of liberation psychology, trauma-informed practice, and the role of improvisation in navigating the complexities of grief, resistance, and joy. Whether you were at the concert or are just now discovering this project, this conversation offers a deep dive into the philosophy and practice of making music for collective healing.

Stream the albums:

Laeh Su Tel! Psychology in a New Key

Laeh Su Tel! A Healing Sound for the People!

Recorded after the live concert at Soapbox Gallery, Brooklyn.

https://www.soapboxgallery.org/live-stream

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Dorian Wallace (he/him) is joined by philosophy professor Anthony Vernon to explore the intersection of fascism, capitalism, labor relations, and dehumanization. They unpack how fascist rhetoric manipulates working-class consciousness, pits workers against each other, and normalizes cruelty in economic structures.

The discussion ranges from lived experiences at a food pantry to academic insights on Marx, Kropotkin, and Levi Nas. The duo also tackles the weaponization of immigration narratives, systemic failures in labor and mental health, and how fascism exploits empathy gaps and hierarchical thinking. Personal stories from hospice care, Rikers Island, and parenthood bring the theoretical down to earth.

They end with a powerful reflection on parenting without gender restrictions, the dangers of cultural scapegoating, and how to foster mutual aid over authoritarian division.

#antifascismo #LaborRights #MutualAid #CapitalismCritique #EmpathyGap #PoliticalPhilosophy #GeorgeJackson #RikersIsland #TraumaInformed #ParentingJustice #ThisMachineKillsFascists #AbolishICE #ImmigrantRights #PrisonAbolition #CriticalTheory #Neurodiversity #MusicTherapy

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In this episode of This Machine Kills Fascists, Dorian Wallace reflects on the emotional and spiritual toll of liberation work in environments shaped by trauma, violence, and systemic harm. Reading from his Substack essay Engaged, Not Entangled, he explores the personal cost of witnessing suffering—from hospice to prison programs—and shares how Buddhist-inspired practices help him stay rooted. Dorian explains the difference between being engaged (sustainable, boundaried presence) and being entangled (overwhelmed and consumed by pain).

He highlights the Five Remembrances, the 14 Precepts of Engaged Buddhism, and the Bodhisattva Path as tools for spiritual resilience. The episode concludes with a call to cultivate collective care, spiritual grounding, and principled action as antidotes to burnout and fascism.

Check out my new video “Hasta Siempre”

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F**k Donald Trump. F**k Elon Musk. F**k the NYPD. F**k ICE. Free Palestine. Peace. In this solo episode of This Machine Kills Fascists, facilitator Dorian Wallace (he/him) guides listeners through a deep dive into The Praxis Wheel, his framework designed for liberation-centered, trauma-informed facilitation and healing arts practice. Drawing from his work in hospice care, carceral spaces, and trauma recovery, Dorian breaks down each of the eight spokes of The Praxis Wheel, explaining how this relational, non-hierarchical tool supports ethical, culturally grounded engagement with individuals and communities in struggle. Whether you're a therapist, educator, organizer, or artist, this framework is meant to serve as a real-time compass for liberation work.

Read the original article here:

In this episode, Dorian Wallace (he/him) reads his latest essay from Substack, Understanding High-Control Dynamics: From cults to toxic workplaces, many high-control environments share similar patterns of manipulation and abuse. Drawing from his work in cult recovery, hospice care, and prison music therapy, Dorian explores how coercive control operates across various environments—cults, gangs, abusive relationships, workplaces, and more. Learn to recognize patterns of manipulation, abuse, and hierarchy, and why activists should understand these dynamics to organize in healthier, more effective ways.

Read the full essay here

#HighControlDynamics #CoerciveControl #CultAwareness #TraumaInformedCare #LiberationWork #ActivistWellness #OrganizeHealthy #CultsToWorkplaces #MusicTherapyHealing #PrisonReform #GangDynamics #ThoughtReform #RobertJLifton #BoundedChoice #SocialJustice #AntiFascistOrganizing #SurvivorSupport #ToxicWorkplaces #EmotionalManipulation #DoriansMode #ThisMachineKillsFascists #LiberationPsychology #CommunityCare #HealingThroughMusic #KnowTheSigns

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In this episode of This Machine Kills Fascists, Dorian Wallace sits down with philosopher and adjunct professor Anthony Vernon for a deep dive into how fascism manipulates postmodern ideas, exploits social forces, and evolves beyond caricatures of the past. Together, they explore the pseudo-intellectual tactics of modern fascists, the dangers of hypernationalism, and the role of class in sustaining authoritarian movements. From Heidegger to Jordan Peterson, QAnon to Elon Musk, they unpack how fascist ideologies adapt by borrowing symbols, twisting narratives, and fostering cult-like devotion to state power. The conversation also highlights the psychological dynamics of coercion, identity, and the human cost of these movements—both online and in real-world communities.

#AntiFascism #PhilosophyTalk #Postmodernism #FightFascism #PoliticalTheory #CriticalThinking #Hypernationalism #CultDynamics #SocialJustice #ClassAnalysis #AntiAuthoritarian #RejectHate #EducationForLiberation #DeconstructFascism #PhilosophyPodcast #DorianWallace #AnthonyVernon #ThisMachineKillsFascists #NoPasaran #LiberationNotDomination #PsychologyOfPower #CoerciveControl #ResistOppression #AntiRacist #CommunityOverState #SmashFascism #IntellectualResistance #ExposeAuthoritarianism #CriticalDialogue #FreedomThroughEducation

Dorian’s Mode is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In this solo episode, composer and music therapist Dorian Wallace breaks down the concept of fascism—what it is, how it evolves, and how to resist it. Drawing from his essay on Substack, Dorian explores key frameworks by Robert Paxton, George Jackson, Umberto Eco, Mark Bray, and others to unpack fascism's social, psychological, and political dimensions. He connects historical theory with lived experience, including his own political awakening during the Trump era.

Topics include:

* What fascism is (and isn’t)

* 5 Stages of Fascism (Paxton)

* 3 Phases of Fascism (Jackson)

* Umberto Eco’s Ur-Fascism traits

* The Three-Way Fight framework (Shaw)

* Fascism as colonial violence (Fanon & Césaire)

* How music, activism, and education can help us resist

Read the full essay:

Solidarity forever. F**k fascism.#ThisMachineKillsFascists #Antifascist #PoliticalEducation #FascismExplained #DorianWallace #LiberationNotDomination

Dorian’s Mode is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.