In this episode:  I talk to two incredible women who are leading the charge to redefine how we think about and legislate consent—Joyce Short and Nina Lucas of the Consent Awareness Network, or CAN. 

If Joyce Short gets her way, both “Yes Means Yes” and “No Means No” will be stricken from our laws. She is a sexual assault survivor and the author of 4 books that can turn our human right to consent into a civil right backed by law. 

She is the founder and Chief Executive of the Consent Awareness Network and a TEDx Talk Presenter. She has been an expert witness and the architect of several legislative bills that can radically change how our justice system deals with consent. 

Joyce has been featured on Nightline, CBS News, BuzzFeed, Inside Edition, the NY Times, and more, and she’s been quoted in books and journals, including “The Moment” by Andrea Constand, and has been honored as a 'Woman of Distinction" by the NY State Assembly. 

Nina Lucas serves as Chief of Staff and a Consent Outreach Ambassador for the Consent Awareness Network (CAN). She is also an activist with Never Alone Advocacy, founded to fight back against abuse of power in the military. As a classically trained singer, Nina's secret superpower is opera and she is dedicated to applying her robust voice to inform, educate and empower however she can in all efforts to #CodifyConsent 

WEBSITE: www.consentawareness.net 

Joyce's TEDx TALK: https://bit.ly/DefineConsent 

Joyce's Book: Your Consent: The Key to Conquering Sexual Assault (revised edition): bit.ly/ConsentRevised 

ACTION ITEM - SIGN THE PETITION: http://bit.ly/BillPetition 

DONATE: https://consentawareness.net/donate/ 

OTHER CULT/CONSENT podcast appearances: 

A Little Bit Culty 

Something Was Wrong 

CONTACT US: bit.ly/ConsentAmbassador 

#FGKIA - freely given, knowledgeable informed agreement (by a person with the capacity to reason) 

#CodifyConsent 

Support the show

The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente
Website: www.markvicente.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/
X: https://x.com/markvicente
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

In this episode: How my film, "What the Bleep Do We Know?!" led to a weird encounter with a clinical psychologist on a yacht. My eventual induction into NXIVM and my confusion about Keith Raniere's 'Sex Den'. I talk about death anxiety, power dynamics, and the behavior of leaders who claim to have achieved a higher state of consciousness yet engage in questionable practices. 

Support the show

The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente
Website: www.markvicente.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/
X: https://x.com/markvicente
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

What happens when the subconscious drags you back into the cult you’ve left behind? In this episode, I share a vivid dream where I was back in the cult—a surreal journey that left me reflecting and exploring the parallels between my dream and the troubling patterns I see in the world today. This episode isn’t just about a dream; it’s about what the dream represents. It’s about confronting the relationships between my cult experiences and the societal “rules” that feel eerily similar, and unpacking the challenges of living authentically in a world rife with ideological capture and judgmental intolerance. 

Support the show

The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente
Website: www.markvicente.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/
X: https://x.com/markvicente
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

In this episode: I use the comic, Asterix and Obelix as a metaphor to explore societal beliefs and the consequences of questioning established norms. I talk about how the fear of the sky falling and the invention of the 'special helmet' mirrors contemporary issues of belief and conformity. Also, we talk shit about the skydeniers and the anti-helmets.

Support the show

The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente
Website: www.markvicente.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/
X: https://x.com/markvicente
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

In this episode, I explore the concept of fear-based manipulation and control, discussing how fear and trauma have historically been used to bind individuals to leaders, ideologies, and movements. I reference key thinkers like Matthias Desmet and Hannah Arendt, providing historical examples such as the Cultural Revolution in China, Stalin's Great Purge, and the Salem witch trials. I emphasize the role of media in shaping perceptions of fear and the psychological dynamics of coercive control and trauma bonding. At the end, I offer some strategies for recognizing and resisting fear tactics.

Support the show

The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente
Website: www.markvicente.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/
X: https://x.com/markvicente
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

Former Hollywood actor, David Sutcliffe discusses his journey of self-discovery, transitioning from acting to somatic therapy, and the struggles of authenticity and identity. He talks about the role of pain in healing, the complexities of the victim mentality, and the acceptance of both good and evil within ourselves. The conversation emphasizes the importance of emotional awareness and personal growth, highlighting the challenges and rewards of facing one's inner darkness. We delve into the complexities of human nature, exploring the darker impulses that reside within us all and the importance of acknowledging and embracing these aspects to foster personal growth and deeper connections. We discuss the challenges of masculinity in contemporary society and the need for men to find safe spaces to express their vulnerabilities. Through personal anecdotes and insights, David emphasizes the significance of authenticity, emotional intelligence, and the balance between masculine and feminine energies in navigating life.

Support the show

The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente
Website: www.markvicente.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/
X: https://x.com/markvicente
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

In this episode: Richard Grannon and I delve into the complexities of ideology, exploring its definitions, psychological impacts, and its relationship with beliefs. We discuss the nuances between having beliefs and being ideologically captured, the role of utopianism in ideology, and how these concepts relate to cult dynamics and narcissism. We also touch on the importance of developing an internal locus of control and the personal journey of understanding one's beliefs and ideologies. 

We explore the themes of ideological capture, dissociation, and the psychological dynamics of narcissism and the shame and self-betrayal experienced by individuals who have been ideologically captured, drawing parallels to cult dynamics. 

The conversation delves into the pain of existence and the struggle to confront reality without the comfort of ideology. Richard critiques the misconceptions surrounding Buddhism and emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment. We also address the role of ideology as a coping mechanism for existential angst and the dangers of losing oneself in ideological narratives. 

In our chat, we explore the complexities of human behavior, the dynamics of cults versus tribes, and the importance of compassion in social interactions. We discuss the compulsive nature of ideology, the awakening from cultural complacency, and the balance between individual agency and collective responsibility. I reflect on personal growth after leaving a cult, the dangers of ideological certainty, and Richard emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of political discourse.

Support the show

The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente
Website: www.markvicente.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/
X: https://x.com/markvicente
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

In this episode: Peter Boghossian and I delve into the complexities of belief systems, the importance of open dialogue, and the role of education in shaping our understanding of the world. We discuss the challenges posed by ideological capture, the significance of epistemology, and the need for civil discourse in a polarized society. Throughout the discussion, we emphasize the importance of acknowledging mistakes, the dangers of clinging to beliefs, and the necessity of curiosity and humility in the pursuit of truth.

https://peterboghossian.com/
https://www.youtube.com/c/drpeterboghossian/videos

00:00 Introduction
02:04 Exploring Street Epistemology
04:03 The Importance of Open Dialogue
06:53 Understanding Belief Systems and Identity
10:11 The Role of Epistemology in Life
12:58 The Crisis of Legitimacy in Institutions 
15:46 The Need for Civil Discourse
19:05 The Dangers of Ideological Capture
21:54 Why People Cling to Their Beliefs
25:14 The Impact of Postmodernism
28:09 The Role of Education in Belief Formation
30:59 Resistance to Change in Beliefs
33:49 The Importance of Common Ground
36:45 The Influence of Power Dynamics
40:10 The Asymmetry of Cultural Warfare
43:00 The Challenge of Acknowledging Mistakes
45:53 The Disconnect from Reality
49:10 The Tragedy of Misguided Education
52:11 The Role of Curiosity in Understanding
55:11 The Importance of Intellectual Humility

Support the show

The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente
Website: www.markvicente.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/
X: https://x.com/markvicente
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

My Thoughts on Cult Mentality and Moral Dilemmas – Alison Mack, NXIVM, and Beyond

In this episode: I dive into some deep and personal reflections about the dangers of avoiding moral questions, both in cults and in society at large. Drawing from my own experiences with NXIVM, I talk about Alison Mack, her attempts to question her role, and how Keith Raniere manipulated her into silence. I also explore how this same kind of gaslighting happens beyond cults – in politics, social movements, and even everyday life, when we stay loyal to our "team" at the cost of our own moral compass. It’s about confronting the uncomfortable questions and staying curious, no matter where you find yourself.

00:00 - Intro Teaser: Are We the Baddies?
I begin with the question no one wants to ask but must: “Are we doing something wrong?” This sets the stage for a deeper look into avoiding moral questioning.

02:00 - Alison Mack’s Story
Alison Mack once questioned her role in NXIVM, but Raniere manipulated her into doubting herself, a classic gaslighting move to keep her compliant.

04:30 - Gaslighting in NXIVM
Raniere’s tactic of framing questions as selfish behavior stopped people from critically thinking about the organization and its practices.

06:15 - Cult-Like Behavior in Society
I discuss how this same tactic plays out in broader society, where groups refuse to question themselves and silence internal doubts.

08:00 - Fragmentation in Cults
I reflect on a high-ranking NXIVM member who, under years of manipulation, became disconnected from reality, but no one dared to question her.

10:00 - Blind Loyalty in Groups
I explore how group loyalty, in both cults and politics, can lead people to defend actions they would normally find immoral.

12:00 - Denial of Evil
I discuss how people deny or justify real issues, like child trafficking, simply because the "enemy" points them out.

13:45 - Defending Processed Food
I reflect on how processed food has become defended by some, not because it’s healthy, but because the opposing side says it’s bad.

15:00 - Cults and Psychosis
I emphasize the need for self-reflection to avoid falling into cult-like thinking, where group loyalty overrides personal values.

17:00 - Questioning Your Own Side
I encourage viewers to challenge their own group when wrongdoing is evident, even if it means facing backlash.

18:00 - Final Thoughts: Stay Curious
I end with a reminder to always stay curious, keep questioning, and avoid falling into blind loyalty or groupthink.

Let's keep the conversation going and strive for more meaningful exchanges.

Support the show

The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente
Website: www.markvicente.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/
X: https://x.com/markvicente
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

In this episode: I sit down with Richard Grannon to dive deep into the power and relevance of the Socratic Method in today's polarized world. Building on themes from my previous episode "The Rage of the Empath" we explore how critical thinking, open dialogue, and intellectual humility can help us navigate complex issues and conflicting viewpoints.

Socratic Method: We unpack the ancient Greek approach to dialogue, where both parties must first fully understand each other's positions before engaging in debate. This method fosters understanding and respect, even in disagreement.
Small Life Syndrome: Richard introduces the concept of "Small Life Syndrome," where modern life, especially in the post-lockdown era, has led to an over-reliance on online interactions, shrinking our real-world experiences and making us more emotionally fragile.
Fear of Ideas: We discuss why some people are more fearful of ideas than others and how this fear can lead to censorship and the suppression of free thought.
Maturity and Conflict: We explore how those with real-world experience in conflict, particularly physical combat, often exhibit greater maturity and politeness in discussions, contrasting sharply with the immature and aggressive behavior seen online.
Modern Communication: The conversation also touches on the role of the internet in shaping our communication styles, how clickbait culture influences online behavior, and the importance of maintaining integrity and curiosity in content creation.

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRN1pe0US2hQtmDjdhAzn-iyIdy1W_P6T&si=AxBTIVrqcYowhWRS
https://www.youtube.com/@UC09fp6hZ2RHiUYwY8hNCirA 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qskI4iqDiI

Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that challenges us to think deeper about how we engage with others, both online and in the real world.

Support the show

The views and opinions expressed on WTF is on my Mind?! do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast or Mark Vicente. Any content provided by guests are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarkVicente
Website: www.markvicente.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/
X: https://x.com/markvicente
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/