Brendon Marotta is a filmmaker, author, and speaker. He is best known for his feature-length documentary American Circumcision, which appeared on Netflix. He is the author of multiple books, the next of which explores the treatment of children as a social justice issue.
Send us a textAre human rights a social construct? Professor Benjamin Gregg, author of Human Rights as Social Construction and Creating Human Nature: The Political Challenges of Genetic Engineering, argues they are, but thinking of human rights as a social construct strengthens them. In this in-person discussion, we explore how political communities can self-author human rights, whether or not human rights require cultural imperialism to impose, and the human rights questions raised by genetic engineering.Resources:Human Rights as Social Construction by Benjamin GreggCreating Human Nature: The Political Challenges of Genetic Engineering by Benjamin GreggAmazon affiliate links used.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
6/4/24 • 112:55
Send us a textAttachment Parenting International (API) co-founders Barbara Nicholson and Lysa Parker discuss attachment parenting and their book Attached at the Heart: Eight Principles for Raising Connected and Compassionate Children. We talk about parenting multiple children at the same time, finding support as parents, and how to ensure your children have stable connections. Plus, Brendon makes a personal announcement. Resources:Attached at the Heart: Eight Principles for Raising Connected and Compassionate Children by Barbara Nicholson and Lysa ParkerAttachment Parenting International (API)Amazon affiliate links used.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
4/23/24 • 83:00
Send us a textJoshua Lisec is the ghostwriter of over 92 books. Under his own name, he has written So Good They Call You a Fake and the upcoming book Unhumans. In this episode, Joshua shares bold critiques of the publishing industry, fitness and diet propaganda, and communist revolutions. We talk about the challenges of nuance in marketing, finding your tribe through courage, and why Karl Marx was right (about some things).ResourcesSo Good They Call You a Fake: Command Attention, Monetize Your Talent Stack, and Become the Uncontested Authority in Your Niche by Joshua LisecUnhumans: The Secret History of Communist Revolutions (and How to Crush Them) by Jack Posobiec and Joshua LisecJoshua Lisec's WebsiteJoshua Lisec on X / TwitterAmazon affiliate links used.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
4/9/24 • 71:02
Send us a textAfter a Hasidic Jewish upbringing, Yochanan Lowen sued the Canadian government, arguing that his religious education failed to teach him basic information needed to succeed in the world. His story and lawsuit are profiled in the documentary I Want To Know. We talk about his journey, including the abuse he endured, the change he responded with, and how Yochanan is working to protect Jewish children. ResourcesI Want To Know Documentary FilmLowen's wife's PatreonFollow Lowen on Clubhouse Ari Hershkowitz on Hasidic Jewish ChangeSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
10/24/23 • 103:52
Send us a textBeth Maloney, author of Protecting Your Child from the Child Protection System, shows how innocent parents can handle wrongful accusations from the child protection system and reveals how a mere trip to the doctor can start a legal nightmare. In this episode, we discuss the alarming rise of child abuse pediatricians who can accuse parents of child abuse for seeking medical treatment for their children. We tackle how to handle unique parenting situations and provide valuable insights and practical advice for parents in a worst-case scenario.Resources:Protecting Your Child from the Child Protection System by Beth MaloneyBeth Maloney WebsiteAI tools used to create this episode include Autopod and Cohost AI.Amazon Affiliate links used.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
8/15/23 • 100:17
Send us a textDrawing from his background in theatre and improv, Gabriel shares his insights into entering a child's world through play. We discuss the difference between different styles of parenting, including peaceful and authoritative parenting, how to connect with neurodivergent children, and what you can do to become a better parent.Timestamps (Generated by AI):0:00 - Understanding and Connecting With Children's Worlds9:21 - Parenting Through Play and Setting Boundaries22:25 - Rapport and Non-Judgment in Parenting30:46 - Navigating Parenting in a Changing World35:53 - Success Skills and Empowering the Next Generation43:10 - Healing and Transformation in Families59:04 - Parenting Challenges and Behavior Modification1:07:25 - Closing Remarks and GratitudeResources:This Is Parenting by Gabriel HannansGabriel Hannans WebsiteAI tools used to create this episode include Autopod and Cohost AI.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
7/11/23 • 68:30
Send us a textAnthony Blood is a social media activist using Tik Tok to share the good news about foreskin restoration. In this episode, we explore various platforms where intactivist communities exist, we discuss the potential of modern regenerative medicine to restore the foreskin, and explore the healing process, including useful tools for healing trauma such as the Completion Process. Plus, Anthony and Brendon joke around and have fun.Timestamps (Generated by AI):0:00 - Foreskin Restoration and Social Media15:56 - Influence and Content Creation on TikTok26:21 - Discussing Foreskin Restoration and Advocacy42:48 - Exploring Circumcision Restoration Options54:28 - Losing the Ability to Experience Trauma1:00:09 - Activism and Accepting Reality1:06:41 - Healing Trauma and Finding Inner Peace1:19:50 - Spiritual Experiences and Reverse Effort Law1:31:25 - Meditation and Completion Process1:36:18 - The Completion Process for Personal Growth1:46:20 - Masculine Healing and Physical Restoration1:55:17 - Foreskin Restoration & Healing Trauma2:10:11 - Podcasting and Restoring Buddies2:15:26 - Emotional Growth and Self-ImprovementResourcesAnthony Blood @bloodstainedman on Tik TokSwallowed by a Snake: The Gift of the Masculine Side of Healing by Thomas GoldenThe Completion Process by Teal SwanAI tools used to create this episode include Autopod and Cohost AI. Amazon affiliate links used.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
6/27/23 • 136:50
Send us a textJoe Speredon speaks on the transformative power of men's circles, and shares how he responded to a personal crisis by joining Sacred Sons, participating in a real-life fight club, and letting go of the masks men wear to embrace his authentic self. We discuss the unique challenges men face, how to set children up for success, and how to find a men's group that is right for you. Listen to learn about the masculine.Timestamps0:00 - Men's Emotional Growth and Authenticity14:12 - Masculine Health and Conscious Combat31:36 - Masculinity and Awareness39:47 - The Importance of Emotional Awareness51:14 - Exploring Spirituality in Men's Groups1:02:12 - Embrace Yourself in Men's CirclesResourcesJoe Speredon InstagramAlgiz Guard (Joe's Men's Group)Sacred SonsAI Tools used in the creation of this episode include Autopod and Buzzsprout CohostAI.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
6/6/23 • 73:51
Send us a textBuy The Gods of AI here.From the creator of The Gods of AI comes a shocking prediction about the future of AI and art.In this episode, Brendon Marotta shares his interest in AI art, predicts how AI will change filmmaking, and explains why he spent two months making over twenty thousand images to tell a story about human consciousness using AI.Timestamps[00:00:06] How Brendon Got Interested in AI[00:01:51] The Impact of Chat GPT[00:04:11] AI and the Film Industry[00:08:36] Acting and AI[00:13:30] Brendon's Work with AI[00:14:47] The Gods of AI[00:19:59] AI's Role in Filmmaking[00:22:03] AI's Use in Podcasting[00:25:01] AI and Human Consciousness[00:28:20] AI's Amplification Effect[00:30:02] Using AI for Good[00:31:19] Brendon's AI Journal[00:31:58] Connecting with Like-minded IndividualsResourcesThe Gods of AIBrendon's AI JournalAI Tools used in the creation of these podcast notes include Capsho and ChatGPT.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
5/23/23 • 33:27
Send us a textJordan Arel discusses effective altruism, a movement that aims to do the most good for sentient beings using reason and evidence. Jordan and Brendon explore strategies EA uses to create social change such as recruiting from elite universities, earn to give, and a reason-based approach to action, and drawn lessons useful for any movement trying to do good in the world.Timestamps:[0:02:17] How to Create the Most Good for Humanity[0:04:46] Recruiting, Community Building, and Curriculum[0:06:56] Rationality, Altruism, and the Method of Inquiry[0:11:29] Cost-Effectiveness, Quality Adjusted Life Years, and the ITN Framework[0:16:36] Personal Benefit and Effective Altruism[0:18:27] Altruism and the Effective Altruism Movement[0:20:49] Making the Effective Altruism Movement More Effective[0:25:09] Exploring Effective Recruitment Strategies for Intactivism[0:27:05] Recruiting High Value People for Effective Altruism[0:32:55] The Benefits of Earning and Donating Money to Activism[0:34:30] Creating a Culture of Effective Altruism[0:37:30] Handling Irrational Emotional Compulsions in Activism Movements[0:39:57] Getting Involved with Effective Altruism[0:41:20] An Introduction to Effective Altruism[0:43:17] Creating a Culture of Reading for Effective Altruism[0:51:13] Effective Altruism and Children's Issues[0:52:58] Approaching Issues with Significant Opposition in Effective Altruism[0:55:30] Analyzing Risk and Reward for Effective Activism Strategies[0:59:25] Personalizing Effective Altruism Analysis[1:01:58] Maximizing Impact with Effective Altruism[1:12:10] Different Paths and Opportunities in Effective AltruismResources:Jordan Arel WebsiteEffective Altruism ForumEA Books:Doing Good Better by William MacAskill The Life You Can Save by Peter SingerThe Precipice by Toby OrdAI Tools used in the creation of this episode include Deciphr AI, ChatGPT, and Autopod. This list uses Amazon Affiliate Links.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
5/9/23 • 75:39
Subscriber-only episodeSend us a textJames Lowen shares his journey into the Freedom movement in part two, discussing the Covid-19 pandemic, lockdowns, and forced vaccination that prevents him from leaving his country. Brendon and James explore the emotional and relational fallout that occurred as a result of Jame's shift in perspective and discuss how becoming a parent changed Brendon.Supporter-only episode. Become a supporter here: https://brendonmarotta.com/show-subscribeTimestamps:[0:02:41] How James Investigated the Corrupt System[0:04:55] The Influence of Secret Societies on Politics[0:07:27] Exploring the Freedom Movement[0:09:28] The Impact of Sharing Intactivist Perspectives[0:13:29] The Bigger Picture Beyond Intactivism[0:15:48] The History of Modern Medicine[0:17:50] University Culture and Indoctrination[0:22:59] Activists’ Reactions to Reactions to Conspiracy Theories[0:26:50] The Co-Opting of the LGBTQ+ Movement and the Impact of the Pandemic[0:30:42] Conversation on Intellectual Disagreement and Relational Violence[0:33:21] The Impact of Unpopular Ideas on Relationships[0:35:02] Medical Tyranny and Vaccines[0:39:41] The Connection Between Circumcision and Vaccines[0:41:24] Activism and Fear of Losing Progress[0:44:47] Exploring the Impact of Transgenderism on Society[0:48:02] Genital Autonomy vs. Genital Integrity[0:54:30] The Process of Updating Perspectives and Information[0:56:10] Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health and Life Choices[1:01:16] Mask Use During the COVID-19 Pandemic[1:03:29] Finding Community During Conflict and Controversy[1:05:37] The Covid-19 Pandemic and the Detransition Stories[1:09:39] The Impact of Transgenderism on Children[1:11:58] The Impact of Censorship on Social Media Platforms[1:14:01] Power Struggles in Relationships[1:16:30] The Difference Between Pressure and Persuasion[1:19:15] How Becoming a Father Changed Brendon[1:22:49] Stress and Emotional Regulation[1:25:05] Parenting and Healing Through Connection[1:32:45] Parenting Responsibilities and Unexpected Joys[1:34:44] Conscious ParentingResourcesFollow James on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Bonobo3DPodcast notes were generated with assistance from Deciphr AI and ChatGPT. Let me know how you like them since this is my first time using AI to assist with podcast notes.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/ Become a supporter here:https://brendonmarotta.com/show-subscribe
4/18/23 • 97:13
Send us a textPhotographer James Lowen discusses his journey documenting multiple social movements, including early gay rights and transgender activism, Intactivism, anti-lockdown protests, and the detrans movement. He shares insights into his process, the evolution of technology, and his personal growth as an artist.Timestamps:[02:22] How James Got Started With Video[04:17] First Filming of Protests[11:14] The Arc of James Film Career[14:00] James Loewen's Personal Connection to Outrage and Intactivism[18:18] The Angelic Inspirations of James Work[20:20] James YouTube Intactivism Origin Story[22:16] Exploring the Impact of Circumcision Through Filmmaking and Activism[24:27] Reflections on Brendon's Documentary Film[28:21] The Growth and Change of Intactivism Over 30 Years of Filming[31:04] The Impact of Gore Vidal's 1968 Novel Myra Breckenridge[33:03] The Power of the Bloodstained Protest Symbol and Jonathan Conte[37:33] Reflection on the Impact of the Bloodstained Men[40:26] Exploring the Symbolism of the Bloodstained Outfit, Jonathan Conte, and Patricia Robinett[43:08] Reflections on Intactivism and the Bloodstained Men Tour[45:25] The Unique and Memorable Journey with Bloodstained Men[47:41] The Southern Tour with Bloodstained MenResourcesFollow James on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Bonobo3DPodcast notes were generated with assistance from Deciphr AI and ChatGPT. Let me know how you like them since this is my first time using AI to assist with podcast notes.New: Become a supporter of the show here:https://brendonmarotta.com/show-subscribeSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
4/11/23 • 50:06
Send us a textRecorded during the development of Children's Justice, in this episode I talk about the events that lead to Children's Justice, my reasons for the book, and the process of writing the book.ResourcesChildren's JusticeChildren's Justice is out now. Get the book here:https://brendonmarotta.com/childrensjustice/Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
2/22/22 • 58:25
Send us a textThe story of the bestseller that didn't exist. Plus, how to speak genius into reality through magick.ResourcesVideo on I, Libertine: https://youtu.be/W7H5kFGEyUwChildren's JusticeThe Intactivist GuidebookSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
2/8/22 • 25:15
Send us a textBuy Children's Justice:https://brendonmarotta.com/childrensjustice/Buy on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/dp/1735113425Support the show
2/2/22 • 04:15
Send us a textMarilyn Milos, who is regarded as ‘The Mother of the Intactivist Movement,” is merging her organization with Georganne Chapin's organization Intact America. Both experienced activists join us on this show to explore the history of the intactivist movement, all the way to the present. We talk about some challenges Intactivists are now facing and what the future might hold. If you are interested in Intactivism, this is a must-listen episode. Timestamps:[01:10] How Marilyn and Georgian met[18:06] Marilyn’s thoughts about working with Georgianne[21:07] The merger: What does it mean and how did it come about [35:45] Developing a new strategy for the future after the merger[42:37] Social justices to complicity principle[48:50] The difference between professional and the grassroot organizations[54:20] Hiring process in the Intactivist organizations[1:01:50] Working with Intact America organization[1:03:05] The challenges in raising funds for the Intactivist organizations[1:08:16] The stigma around intactivist movements and how to handle it[1:11:35] Opening the doors for victims to come out and talk to each other[1:23:17] The true evil underlying the circumcision obsession[1:26:00] Will Intact America change its name after the merger?[1:28:28] Reach out to the Intact America organizationResourcesAmerican CircumcisionGenital Autonomy-America Merges with Intact AmericaIntact AmericaSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
2/1/22 • 91:40
Send us a textHotep Jesus shares his book The Patriot Report: The Conspiracy of Money and War and explores how debt and money are used to control society. We also talk about frame control, homeschooling, and much much more.Topics Discussed In This Episode:[01:23] How wealthy and powerful people think about debt[02:38] How the people issuing dept can use it to gain power over different elements of society[07:04] What prevents kings from taking power from merchants[11:14] Why money men could not issue their currency and become their own bank[16:00] About Hotep Nation[19:00] The difference between trade-offs and cryptocurrency[27:00] The frame control[32:08] The meaning of grifters[37:35] Writing processes[44:16] The process of shifting the attention you get and re-inventing yourself[52:56] Methods of making the trade-offs in a way that benefit you more[57:56] How Hotep Nation tackles homeschooling[01:05:03] The book ‘Continuum Concept.’[01:08:16] Why military school?[01:01:33] The intention behind Brian’s educational experiment[01:13:37] What is wrong with our society nowResourcesThe Patriot ReportRules of MasculinityThe GriftiesHotep NationHotep Nation YouTubeHotep DocumentaryHotep JesusHotep Jesus on TwitterSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
1/24/22 • 78:06
Send us a textIdeamarket allows you to invest cryptocurrency into ideas to solve the information problem we all face: How do you know who to trust and what to pay attention to? In this episode, Mike Elias and James Ellis from Ideamarket break down the future of trust online.Topics Discussed In This Episode:[01:22] What is the two-sentence elevator pitch for Idea Market?[04:26] How idea Market helps find the good in all the noise.[10:56] Proliferation of information[12:24] How crowdsourcing model works[18:08] Pumping and building an idea through a small vocal fanbase[23;43] Preventative measures against dominant media building and flooding ideas in the incumbent media.[26:52] Can you sell an idea on Idea Market?[28:18] Betting on a competing idea[32:35] How ideas are valued on idea Market[37:00] The metaphor of a fact[45:38] Facts are extremely deep assumptions[47:35] Managing the uncertainty[52:00] Using past experiences to make assumptions for the future.[53:50] Financial costs of buying into ideas on the platform[56:02] How to use the idea market platform[58:12] Advice to those who haven’t joined crypto yet[1:01:38] Putting your money on Twitter personalities.[1:04:31] How to get in touch with Mike and James[1:06:47] Idea Market as an income streamResourcesIdeamarket websiteIdeakmarket user tutorialMike Elias on facts (Part 1, 2, 3)Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
1/11/22 • 70:56
Send us a textAnnouncing my next book. In this solo episode, I explain how I chose my next project, what I discovered creating it, and why it might be the boldest project yet.Previous Projects Mentioned:American CircumcisionThe Intactivist GuidebookSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
12/14/21 • 27:41
Send us a textAs a social media manager, Jesse Herman has gotten over 20 billion views for his clients. Now, Jesse is starting a crypto platform that allows users to stake crypto on creators and causes they want to support.We also talk about what polarizing characteristics make for a successful creator, how to handle toxic trolls, and why Jesse is focused on creating a "free money platform" rather than a free speech platform.P.S. I am on Jesse's new platform. Support me here.Topics Discussed In This Episode:[01:16] What Jesse Herman does[02:36] Content creation behind the scenes[04:06] Jesse’s story. Where it all started[09:29] Growing Facebook pages for clients[16:31] Advice to creators trying to produce viral content[17:56] Process of hiring people[20:30] Platforms to scale your business[29:13] New finance app for social media platforms and how it works[37:21] How to start receiving donations for your organization[43:26] Customized social tokens[53:22] Letsgo.finance platform launch date[55:03] Monetization through donations[1:00:49] How to get people to adapt to a new platform[1:06:08] Charity sites vs. donations sites[1:13:22] Setting up a mini-mask wallet[1:19:02] Change in content creation over 15 years[1:26:35] Identifying creators that have huge potential[1:31:43] Taboo topics in crypto[1:37:49] Controversy and polarization sales[1:46:02] Platform moderation and the challenges social media companies face[1:52:20] Polarization on the social media platform[2:00:36] Social Media influence strategies[2:03:40] Why Jesse prefers free money to free speech platform[2:10:01] Building better or revolutionary systems?ResourcesLetsGo.Finance - Donate Crypto Through DeFi and NFTsHow To Join LetsGo.Finance:Get a MetaMask Wallet and add the browser extension.Go to app.letsgo.finance and sign up for an account, while logged into MetaMask.Support Brendon on LetsGo.Finance here:https://app.letsgo.finance/profile/bdmarottaSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
11/9/21 • 131:38
Send us a textMystic Christian illustrator Owen Cyclops joins me to discuss internet ethnography and examine online culture. This is our longest episode yet, and also our deepest.Topics Discussed In This Episode:[02:30] What internet ethnography means[07:04] How the culture of the internet became a real life[16:10] The internet’s social implications[32:04] Why institutions are losing people’s trust[37:15] Creating a story on social media[48:00] Consuming social media information[52:55] How the internet flattens power and social status[57:32] Origin of the internet memes[01:00:10] Lack of positive repercussions on the internet[01:01:49] Online anonymous honesty[01:05:50] How the previous internet felt more private[01:07:24] Taking responsibility on social media posts[01:10:37] The superiority of the internet forums[01:14:51] Catering for the internet audience[01:17:22] Threading on forums[01:25:45] The need for niche spaces on social media[01:28:11] Meeting with someone online[01:30:10] Social Media and vlogging[01:40:20] Using pseudo accounts vs real identity online[01:44:00] Separating your real life from online life[01:47:07] Why do people go insane online[01:54:18] Keeping a balance between your image and what you post online[01:59:13] Coming back to center and becoming yourself again[02:04:11] Creating character social media accounts[02:15:50] Why do people make up posts on the internet[02:17:52] Pranking vs. Scam[02:20:20] Distinguishing between what’s real and what’s fake online[02:28:10] Social media moderation[02:53:05] Simulacra and Simulation[03:03:55] Standard definition of Postmodernism[03:09:00] Metanarratives of the future[03:13:45] Accepting that we’re living in different realities[03:19:05] Constructing narratives through fiction[03:25:56] Being aware of one’s metanarrative about you[03:28:17] Challenging people’s metanarratives about others[03:33:49] Academics and science metanarratives[03:37:40] How humans are wired to view life[03:48:58] Connect with Owen Cyclops ResourcesOwen Cyclop's WebsiteOwen Cyclops on Twitter / InstagramThe Intactivist Guidebook by Brendon MarottaThe Art Of Getting Over by Stephen PowersGhosts of My Life: Writings on Depression, Hauntology and Lost Futures by Mark FisherThought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism: A Study of "Brainwashing" in China by Robert Jay LiftonSimulacra and Simulation by Jean BaudrillardSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
10/12/21 • 230:59
Send us a textStephanie Seneff shares how the common weedkiller glyphosate might be causing long-term serious health problems for Americans.Topics Discussed In This Episode[00:58] What is glyphosate and why is it a big deal?[04:10] Why the amount of glyphosate use in plants has been increased[07:15] How bad is glyphosate to our health?[12:50] Glyphosate and autism[17:00] Is there a way to measure glyphosate effects on the body?[21:29] Is glyphosate legal in other countries?[25:15] How consumers can push for change[26:22] Why are the food industries still using chemicals in food production[34:40] Why Sulphur is an important nutrient to the body[36:13] Symptoms of autistic mice[37:19] Are companies going to continue using glyphosate?[41:22] How can Americans opt-out of environmental glyphosate[44:45] Mislabeling in the chemical industry[46:19] What is the food industry trying to avoid by using glyphosate?[49:10] The US hitting rock bottom[51:59] Stephanie’s final wordsResourcesStephanie Seneff's WebsiteToxic Legacy: How the Weedkiller Glyphosate is Destroying Our Health and the Environment by Stephanie SeneffSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
10/5/21 • 55:38
Send us a textThe moderator of r/Intactivism on Reddit joins us for an in-depth discussion of social media activism. We talk about the incentives different social media platforms create and how their design changes the psychology of their users. We also talk about how to use internet memes to create laughter, change minds and build online communication.Topics Discussed In This Episode[01:18] Breaking down the Reddit social media platform[02:17] About the r/Intactivism subreddit[06:29] How r/Intactivism community is different from other intactivism groups on other social media platforms[09:53] The incentives on Reddit and how it has enabled thoughtful discussions[13:46] How to educate the population on Intactivism[15:54] The history of human rights[19:20] The problem with Twitter as a medium for long-form discussions[21:21] Deciding on where to spend your time on different Reddit communities[23:01] The generation of a meme and its advantages[28:58] Responses from the r/IntactivismMemes subreddit[29:30] Are there meme formats for Intactivism?[32:01] The role of memes in the discussion[39:29] Entertaining and putting on a show in the subreddit[42:16] Understanding the audience and how to reach them[42:50] What styles of humor does well on Reddit[47:55] Incentives for people doing activism and how to get people to change social media platforms[54:06] Memes and trolling on social media[01:05:10] Final thoughtsResourcesr/Intactivism/r/IntactivistMemes/Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher StoweReasons To Circumcise by Hugh DickmanSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
8/31/21 • 67:16
Send us a textJay Mjinga is a Kenyan journalist working to end African circumcision. In this episode, we talk about how Western circumcision campaigns intersect with tribal conflict in Kenya. Jay shares how myths and misinformation about circumcision are worsening HIV, used to support systemic racism, and contributing to forced circumcision hate crimes. If you want to understand the issue of circumcision in Africa, this is a must-listen episode.Topics Discussed In This Episode:[1:32] - How circumcision is viewed in Kenya[2:38] - How circumcision campaigns are being carried out in Africa[3:41] - Jay’s personal circumcision story[6:20] - How circumcision campaigns lead to unsafe sex[7:19] - How Jay began to question circumcision[8:24] - Circumcision in Kenyan elections[9:49] - Forced circumcisions in Kenyan streets[11:18] - Pro-circumcision propaganda in Kenya[12:35] - Government backlash to Jay’s activism[14:19] - How FGM is treated differently in Kenya[17:17] - Women’s attitudes towards circumcision[18:15] - Sex before and after circumcision[19:54] - How Africans are enticed to get circumcised[23:26] - How tribal circumcision is performed[26:29] - Getting arrested for “anti-government propaganda” against circumcision[32:41] - Are government lies spreading HIV and AIDs?[33:30] - How COVID impacted Kenya[34:50] - The problem with Africans copying the West[37:45] - The relationship between American programs and local Kenyans[40:29] - Conflict between China and America for control of Africa[41:05] - How Americans can help end circumcision in Africa[46:39] - Plans for an anti-circumcision resource center[51:32] - The challenge of fundraising in Africa and Nigerian scam emails[56:26] - How Brendon perceives the circumcision issue in America[1:00:05] - How transgender people might change the issue of genital cutting[1:02:14] - Shame and talking about circumcision[1:04:46] - How circumcision propaganda get distorted in Africa[1:08:09] - How tribal conflict intersects with circumcision and Kenyan politics[1:11:04] - Brendon has a light bulb moment about Kenya politics [1:15:04] - The seriousness of Kenya elections[1:17:08] - Forced circumcisions as hate crimes[1:19:55] - Generational change and inter-tribal marriage[1:23:22] - How circumcision propaganda attacks poorer tribes and interracial marriage[1:29:30] - How America looks at Africa, and the 42 tribes of Kenya[1:33:26] - How money and power works in Kenyan politics[1:41:24] - “Most ideologies end up in the forest”[1:45:12] - How Americans can build trust in AfricaResources:Stop the Cut on FacebookSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
8/24/21 • 111:22
Send us a textMegan Russell, COO of Marotta Wealth Management (and my sister) discusses how your parenting can influence your child’s future relationship to money. Megan shares experiences from her own parenting as we discuss our own beliefs surrounding money, how we can set ourselves up for financial success, and empowering our children to have healthy financial futures.Topics Discussed In This Episode:[1:19] How early you start setting up your children for financial success [2:52] Habits you can create with money that your children can emulate [6:45] How to give children the opportunity to make their own choices about money [9:38] How to help your children navigate through the challenging aspects of money [14:27] Handling your child’s questions about making money [21:50] How to guide your kids to find a career they’re interested in[23:29] How to support your kids in careers you may not understand [26:28] How to foster entrepreneurial skills in your child [30:00] Criticisms of the Millennial generation [31:20] How to handle changes in beliefs around money [34:21] What you can do to give your kids a good start with money[37:26] Easy things you can do to understand personal finance[39:17] How crypto-currencies can be a part of your savings plan [41:20] Where to put your money to save for your kids [44:08] How to support your children financially without spoiling them[49:20] Identifying and reframing your beliefs about money [56:09] How to not use money as a punishment Resources:Megan's BioMarotta Wealth Management Megan's articles on personal finance and wealth managementMarotta Wealth management videos, tutorials, and talks on YoutubeSeven Lessons School Teacher by John Taylor GattoMorningstar StudySubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
8/3/21 • 63:00
Send us a textKerry McDonald talks about the massive growth of homeschooling and unschooling after the Covid-19 pandemic, and how you can start unschooling with your children. Kerry is a Senior Education Fellow at the Foundation for Economic Education, author of Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom, and an adjunct scholar at The Cato Institute.Topics Discussed In This Episode:[2:00] What is unschooling[4:30] What does unschooling and schooling look like in comparison to government schooling and how it’s trying to be different[6:10] How Covid-19 has changed homeschooling and unschooling [11:03] How children learn and how parents can support and facilitate that learning [13:27] What misconceptions people who were brought up in the system have on homeschooling [18:03] How homeschooling has expanded in the past year[19:21] Kerry’s experience and journey to homeschooling [25:57] The first steps to exploring your child’s education in homeschooling[29:45] The process of finding the best option for your child [35:14] How to incorporate non-academic activities into your schooling [39:07] How to spark your child’s interests [40:20] Stereotypes of homeschooling [42:44] The difference in outcome between homeschooling and public education[45:56] Navigating college and how to prepare your child for an unknown futureResources: Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom by Kerry McDonaldKerry McDonald BioSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
7/20/21 • 51:02
Send us a textAri Hershkowitz talks about his journey and experiences in the Hasidic Jewish community explored in the Netflix documentary One of Us (2017). We discuss Ari’s healing journey, return to the Hasidic community, and how the Jewish community is changing.Topics Discussed In This Episode:[1:00] What a Hasidic Jewish Community looks like [2:21] Ari’s current stance in his community[4:47] Journey to change within the Hasidic community and the specific changes being made[6:26] The cause of these changes [7:31] Fears and control of information flow [8:27] Why New York is the home for a Hasidic Jewish community [10:00] Ari’s Journey to questioning and leaving his community [14:51] Ari’s involvement with the documentary crew and experience with film One of Us[16:34] Ari’s experiences post leaving the community[18:51] School and education within the Hasidic Jewish community [19:6] Best and worst of leaving [21:09] Ari’s discoveries of other religions and experiences post leaving the community[23:40] Ari’s return back to living with the community [25:27] Ari’s hopeful changes for the community [28:02] Ari’s journey to self-recovery and healing [29:44] Sexual abuse and how it’s handled in the community [32:44] Footsteps and mental health organizations in the documentary “One of Us” and how to get involved [34:09] How the Hasidic Jewish community see other Jewish communities and perceive criticism from the outside[39:00] Criticism of circumcision and anti-semitism [41:44] Generational trauma and finding ways to have an understanding between outsiders and people within the community [45:11] Jewish Identity defined[47:51] Where Ari is today and his next steps moving forward [48:55] Community and reaction to the Netflix Documentary Resources:One of Us (2017) on NetflixAri Hershkowitz WebsiteAri on Instagram / FacebookSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
7/6/21 • 51:46
Send us a textGarrett Dailey and I candidly explore numerous topics, including the cycles of generational wealth, civilizations and the potential origins for autism and neurodivergencies. Topics Discussed In This Episode:[2:03] How people’s trauma creates their behavior, specifically from early childhood [9:22] Strauss-Howe generational theory[14:26] Story of the Buddha [19:28] Scott Adam’s skill stack [22:20] Generalist vs. Specialists and applying new perspectives to old problems [30:25] Myers Briggs personality types [43:56] Neupro-atypical diagnoses [49:40] Solo hunting and patterns/characteristics of Autism Theory[53:05] The essence of quality Resources:Garrett on TwitterGarrett's SubstackAion (Garrett's Company)Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
6/22/21 • 56:55
Send us a textYolande Norris-Clark, freebirth educator and coach talks about family birth outside the system. Yolande shares her 20 years of wisdom and experience in natural home births. We discuss the importance of freebirth, the common misconceptions and how we can best provide a safe, natural environment for our newborns. Topics Discussed In This Episode:[2:43] Yolande’s Journey to freebirthing [3:19] How to prepare for having a natural home birth[5:52] What does a healthy natural birth look like?[14:53] How to handle cultural stress as a free birther [20:57] Natural home births and how to best prepare [33:43] How we can let go and enjoy the full experience of natural child birth [43:26] Pre-birth steps within industrial hospital systems and the misconceptions of home birthing [48:47] Parenting and birthing in fear and the double standard between home birth vs. the industrial system [55:37] Working through psychological and social pressures against natural home births [1:02:30] Cutting the cord of the placenta [1:06:20] Anticipating home births and dealing with being in the moment[1:08:56] Handling placenta post-birth and using placenta as supplement capsules[1:21:52] Misconceptions of new born baby mucus Resources:Yolande's WebsiteYolande on InstagramYolande's LinktreeSponsor:ForegenSubscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
6/8/21 • 95:03
Send us a textAdam Fletcher talks about adultism, and the pervasive bias the society has towards adults over the needs of children.Adam Fletcher is the executive director of Youth and Educators Succeeding and the Free Child Institute. He is also the author of Facing Adultism. In this episode, we talk about how adulthood is socially constructed and give practical advice on what you can do to create greater engagement with your children.This is a big topic from which you will learn a completely different way of thinking about the social issue of how we treat children.Topics Discussed In This Episode:[00:58] Introducing guest and reviewing Facing Adultism book[02:52] Why adults should be the center of everything in the society[07:46] Things that children do are determined by their age[11:15] Danger of having responsibility without power in parenting[14:34] Adults sharing power and empowering kids[21:01] Linking your childhood experiences to address adultism[25:46] Contemporary vs. traditional adultism roles and responsibilities[30:33] Justifying adultism patterns based on the age of the child[34:43] Negative adultism that is embraced in the new generation[40:27] When does adultism occur?[45:02] How does adultism factor into infants and babies?[48:56] Impact of adultism on brain development[53:38] How to deconstruct social expectations and biases[58:00] Become the change you want to see in the society[1:00:02] Final words and contact informationResourcesYouth and Educators SucceedingFree Child InstituteFacing Adultism by Adam FletcherWhere Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community? by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.Subscribe and support the show directly:https://brendonmarotta.com/show/Support the show
5/25/21 • 62:43
