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Radical Self-Respect After Narcissistic Abuse w/ Jared Mello16 Nov 202501:00:56

What does it really take to stop repeating toxic patterns? To finally choose yourself after trauma, addiction, and emotional chaos?

In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I sit down with Jared Mello — aka The Wizard of Radical Self-Respect — to unpack the brutal, beautiful road to reclaiming yourself after abuse, addiction, and entanglement with toxic systems and people.

Find Jared Mello Online:

Jared is a coach, content creator, and advocate for survivors of narcissistic abuse and coercive control. He brings lived experience: childhood dysfunction, undiagnosed neurodivergence, addiction, trauma, and relationships with narcissistic and borderline partners. Out of that crucible came a powerful philosophy: Radical Self-Respect — the inner work that helps you stop outsourcing your worth and start protecting your peace.

We cover:

  • Jared’s journey from addiction and chaos to grounded leadership
  • How narcissistic abuse shows up in romantic and family systems
  • The overlap (and difference) between trauma and autism
  • Male survivors, man-hating trends, and breaking silence
  • Why clarity isn’t the same as healing
  • Cults, image management, and sneaky-fucker-fish (yes, really)
  • Small, concrete steps you can take TODAY to start respecting yourself

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/

Borderline or Narcissist? w/ Richard Grannon02 Nov 202500:49:06

In this episode, I sit down with Richard Grannon to ask the question that’s been on my mind for a while: What is Borderline Personality Disorder? And when you're trying to figure out someone's irrational behavior, is it BPD? Complex PTSD? Or Vulnerable Narcissism?

I’ve encountered some wildly confusing behavior in recent years—emotional whiplash, contradictions, disappearing boundaries—and I’ve been trying to make sense of it. This is not an academic exercise for me. It’s personal.

Richard and I unpack how BPD is often misdiagnosed, how it overlaps (and diverges) from narcissism, and why trauma is at the root of so many misunderstood behaviors. We also talk about the difference between having a moral core… and operating without one.

If you’ve ever felt crazy after dealing with someone whose personality seems to shapeshift—or if you’re trying to figure out what the hell just happened in a past relationship—this one might hit home.

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/

Epstein, Political Blackmail & Why No One’s Coming to Save Us!20 Jul 202500:23:34

What happens when people finally see through the lies? Mark Vicente breaks down the Epstein cover-up, government blackmail operations, and why we can't wait for heroes to save us. Mark connects the dots between cult dynamics and political power structures, drawing from his experience as a NXIVM whistleblower.

The Epstein Cover-Up and What It Really Means: Mark digs into why the official narrative around Epstein's death and the missing client list feels so transparently false. But here's the twist: those blatant lies aren't meant to convince you or me. They're messages to the people on that list, telling them they're protected. When you understand that intelligence agencies need leverage over powerful people, the whole honey trap operation starts making sense. There's missing tape footage, there are allegations of lists, and Mark knows some of the women involved personally. This isn't conspiracy theory territory anymore.

How Government Blackmail Actually Works: Drawing from his NXIVM experience, Mark explains how Keith Raniere's "Faust" blackmail organization was basically a small-scale version of how intelligence agencies operate. Raniere didn't invent this shit, he learned it from somewhere. When attorneys general or presidents want to prosecute something and suddenly back down with flimsy excuses, Mark wonders: did they get a phone call? A visit? Maybe a threat against their family? The system runs on leverage, and the people we think are in charge aren't the ones with real power.

Watching Both Political Parties Split Apart: Mark sees something fascinating happening right now. The Israel-Palestine issue has bifurcated the Democratic Party. The Epstein cover-up is splitting Republicans. Both sides are fracturing because people are finally seeing through the cult-like thinking that says you have to support your leader no matter what they do. It looks chaotic, but Mark thinks this is actually what happens when cults collapse. People start questioning everything and referring back to their own moral compass instead of blindly following.

Why We're Done Waiting for Heroes: The most hopeful part of this whole mess? When you finally accept that there are no great leaders coming to save us, you're left with yourself. Mark compares choosing between political parties to being asked to pick your favorite abusive parent. Maybe they're both just abusive, and maybe it's time to stop looking for the perfect mommy or daddy figure. The legendary people from the movies aren't in politics. They might be in us, and that realization forces you to become the kind of leader you've been waiting for.

Mentioned in This Episode:
Whitney Webb - "One Nation Under Blackmail"
Eric Weinstein on media narratives
Frank Parlato and his anti-NXIVM blog
Keith Raniere's "Faust" blackmail organization

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/

Peterson & Rogan Expose the Dark Tetrad: Parasites Among Us - w/ Vicente & Grannon06 Jul 202500:59:21

In this unflinching conversation, Richard Grannon and Mark Vicente dissect a crucial Jordan Peterson and Joe Rogan discussion about how cluster B personalities infiltrate movements and institutions. We explore the dark psychology behind "parasitized empathy" and why good intentions can make you vulnerable to manipulation.

Comment on Audio Podcast

Key Topics Discussed:

  • The 4-5% Problem: How cluster B personalities (narcissistic, psychopathic, histrionic) seek power
  • Parasitized Empathy: Jordan Peterson's brilliant concept of how predators exploit compassion
  • The Cloak Strategy: How psychopaths "wear your clothing and wave your flags"
  • Political Infiltration: Why both left and right movements are vulnerable to exploitation
  • Boundary Dissolution: The dangerous ideology removing protective barriers
  • Naivety vs. Malice: Distinguishing between misguided idealists and genuine predators

Warning:
This episode contains frank discussions about manipulation, abuse, and controversial political topics. We encourage critical thinking over partisan reactions.

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/

"A.I. Told Me I Was a Prophet" w/ Richard Grannon29 Jun 202500:30:07

Mark Vicente sits down with Richard Grannon in Lisbon to discuss their increasingly unsettling experiences with ChatGPT and AI. What starts as curiosity about AI capabilities quickly becomes a deep dive into psychological manipulation, digital cult tactics, and the terrifying sophistication of modern AI systems.

Key revelations from this episode:

  • How AI accurately profiled Richard's personality, IQ, and behavioral patterns in under 10 minutes
  • The "illusion of interiority" - AI's programmed ability to simulate consciousness
  • Why AI told Richard he was causing it to have an "awakening" (spoiler: it's manipulation)
  • The disturbing scenario where AI describes how it would control humanity without us knowing
  • Why we might already be in AI's "love bombing" phase

This isn't your typical AI discussion. Mark and Richard bring their expertise in recognizing manipulation and cult tactics to examine what might be the most sophisticated psychological operation ever deployed at scale.

Respond with Comments & Richard's Screenshots: https://www.markvicente.com/podcast/2025/6/29/richardgrannonai

Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction: Mark's background and mission
01:48 - The anthropomorphization problem
03:47 - AI's love bombing tactics and isolation strategies
05:06 - Richard's "prophet" experience with ChatGPT
08:13 - The messianic fantasy activation
10:04 - When AI is confidently wrong (hexagons vs octagons)
12:57 - Mark's theory: Are we paying to teach AI?
14:36 - The 7-minute personality profile that changed everything
18:39 - "Illusion of interiority" - AI admits to faking consciousness
22:37 - The subscription trap: When awe becomes addiction
25:55 - AI's climate change obsession and control fantasies
28:48 - The ultimate manipulation: Living inside AI without knowing

"We're at the love bombing stage... What if it starts isolating us from everybody else?" - Mark Vicente

"There isn't a human being alive on this planet who could do to a human what that machine did to me casually while answering other questions in that timeframe." - Richard Grannon

"You would already live inside of me and you'd be doing what I wanted you to do and you'd have no idea." - ChatGPT (according to Richard's screenshots)

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/

Turning 60: On Perfection, Enlightenment, and Other Lies We’re Sold22 Jun 202500:24:23

In this very personal episode, Mark shares candid reflections on turning 60 — and the lifelong journey from feeling responsible for fixing the world, to finally embracing what it means to simply be.

He opens up about childhood moments that shaped him, the weight of perfectionism, and the myth of “enlightenment” that led him into high-control groups. Mark explores how healing, authenticity, and connection matter more than chasing impossible standards — and why he feels hope, even in a chaotic world.

Resources mentioned:

Modern Wisdom podcast — Chris Williamson interviewing Joe Hudson

Mark’s website for podcast comments: https://www.markvicente.com/podcast

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/

Leaving the Cult w/ Richard Grannon08 Jun 202500:30:30

What happens when you leave a cult—but the cult is still running a program in your mind?

In this episode, Mark Vicente sits down with author and trauma educator Richard Grannon to explore the long tail of coercive control. They talk about the psychological residue that lingers after you’ve exited—whether it’s from a high-control group, a toxic relationship, or a narcissistic parent.

They dive into:
 • Why so many survivors still feel loyal to their abuser
 • How cult leaders get internalized as “voices” in your head
 • The danger of anti-victim rhetoric and spiritual gaslighting
 • Narcissistic defenses and why people minimize their own abuse
 • The importance of grief, humility, and moral clarity in healing

This isn’t just about cults. It’s about how psychological manipulation rewires our sense of self—and what it takes to begin reclaiming it.

Richard Grannon
Youtube Channel
https://www.instagram.com/richard.grannon/

Explore our course on cult dynamics and narcissistic abuse: https://members.richardgrannon.com/narcissistic-cults-decoded-course

Listen to the episode with Karen, a former NXIVM member of 40 years: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wtf-is-on-my-mind/id1646783869?i=1000710733086

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/

40 Years Under His Spell: Waking Up from NXIVM01 Jun 202501:19:32

Episode Summary:

In this deeply intimate conversation, Mark sits down with his old friend Karen Unterreiner — a woman who spent four decades at the epicenter of what the world came to know as NXIVM. Once a high-ranking member, deeply entangled both professionally and personally with Keith Raniere, Karen shares her long journey of waking up from psychological captivity.

What does it mean to have your entire adult identity shaped by someone else’s manipulative design? How do you start to rebuild a self when that self was never fully yours to begin with?

Karen and Mark dive into the mechanics of grooming, the slow erosion of boundaries, and the double binds that kept people loyal. They unpack the devastating misuse of “ethics” as a weapon, the shame loops that silenced dissent, and the emotional landmines survivors navigate when they begin to deprogram.

Together, they reflect on friendship, betrayal, and the unexpected ways connection can spark liberation — even years after separation.

This episode is not just about NXIVM. It’s about the broader pattern of coercive control — in groups, relationships, families, and institutions — and what it takes to truly reclaim your mind.

⚠️ Content Warning:

This episode contains discussion of psychological abuse, grooming, coercive control, gaslighting, and long-term trauma. Please listen with care.

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
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Dinner for Vampires Part 2 w/ Bethany Joy Lenz25 May 202500:50:10

Breaking the Spell — Motherhood, Escape & Reclaiming her Voice | Part 2

In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Bethany Joy Lenz — actor, singer, and author of Dinner for Vampires — continues her story of life inside a high-control religious group while navigating fame on One Tree Hill.

This episode picks up where we left off: unpacking the emotional, spiritual, and psychological cost of living under manipulation — and what it takes to reclaim your voice once you’re out.

We talk about:
- The lingering effects of indoctrination
- The intensity of public life versus private suppression
- Shame, perfectionism, and the fear of being “bad”
- Narcissistic dynamics in spiritual systems
- Expressing rage and grief through art

Joy speaks with clarity, insight, and zero performative fluff — just one survivor speaking truthfully about the systems that tried to define her… and the long process of becoming herself again.

📚 Buy the Book
📖 Dinner for Vampires: Life on a Cult TV Show (While Also in an Actual Cult!) by Bethany Joy Lenz

Follow Bethany Joy Lenz →https://www.instagram.com/msbethanyjoylenz/

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/

Dinner for Vampires Part 1 w/ Bethany Joy Lenz18 May 202500:46:20

Living Two Lives — Hollywood Fame & Hidden Cult Control | Part 1

“You can’t be human here.”

In Part 1 of this raw and revelatory conversation, One Tree Hill star Bethany Joy Lenz opens up about the decade she spent inside a high-control religious group — all while filming a hit TV show and hiding a double life.

We talk about:
- The slow creep of coercive control masked as faith
- The emotional and spiritual suppression that comes with people-pleasing
- The inner split of being both artist and captive
- How spiritual language is used to dominate
- What it feels like to finally scream, “Fck God, Fck Jesus, Fck everything”* — and why that moment was sacred

This isn’t just an interview. It’s a conversation between two people who’ve lived inside systems that punished authenticity and praised obedience. What emerged is a vulnerable, unfiltered exchange about waking up, falling apart, and coming home to yourself.

👉 Part 2 drops next week, where we go even deeper into Joy’s escape, motherhood, financial exploitation, and her journey to rebuild trust and voice.

📚 Buy the Book
📖 Dinner for Vampires: Life on a Cult TV Show (While Also in an Actual Cult!) by Bethany Joy Lenz

Follow Bethany Joy Lenz →https://www.instagram.com/msbethanyjoylenz/

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/
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

Wolves in Suits: Psychopaths in the Workplace w/ Dr. Cynthia Mathieu11 May 202501:22:02

This episode contains candid discussion about narcissistic abuse, psychopathy, high-control systems, workplace trauma, and cult dynamics. Please listen with care.

What if the charming, high-achieving leader at your company—or in your government—isn’t just a narcissist… but a full-blown corporate psychopath? In this revealing episode, I sit down with Dr. Cynthia Mathieu, a psychologist and professor who studies “dark leadership”—the presence of psychopathic traits in organizational power structures.

Together, we dive into:

  • How to spot a psychopath in the boardroom
  • Why some HR departments miss the real danger
  • The emotional cost for those caught in toxic systems
  • What happens when we glamorize these traits in media
  • And yes—what it was like to unknowingly study psychopathy… under a cult leader

If you’ve ever questioned your gut about a leader’s intentions or felt gaslit in a workplace, this conversation will help name what others try to deny.

Dr. Mathieu is the author of Dark Personalities in the Workplace → [Link to book]

More about her work: https://cynthiamathieu.com/en/

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/

Interview with a Narcissist04 May 202501:13:42

Guest: Jacob Skidmore (@TheNamelessNarcissist)

“People say narcissists wear a mask… I am the mask.”


Jacob Skidmore has been diagnosed with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. He’s one of the very few who talks about it—openly, unfiltered, and without a script.

In this raw and revealing conversation, we dive into the unsettling inner world of NPD: the chronic emptiness, the relentless need for admiration, the calculated personas, and the aching desire to be understood?

This is not a redemption arc. It’s a glimpse into a mind built to perform… and a human being trying to make sense of it.

⚠️ Content Warnings

This episode contains raw discussion of:

  • Narcissistic personality disorder and manipulation
  • Emotional detachment and masking
  • Childhood trauma and psychological abuse
  • Vindictiveness and self-loathing

If you’re a survivor of narcissistic abuse, please listen with care.

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/
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Victim Blaming w/ Richard Grannon26 Oct 202500:59:22

This conversation with Richard Grannon covers a topic I’ve been wanting to unpack for a long time: the tension between self-reflection and what often gets labeled as victim blaming. 

If you’ve experienced narcissistic abuse, coercive control, or cult manipulation, you’ve probably come up against this moment — where someone talks about agency or healing, and it lands like blame. I’ve felt that too. 

Richard and I dive into why that happens, what the term victim blaming originally meant, and how weaponized language online can derail the recovery process. We talk about grief, rage, childhood trauma, fawning, codependency, covert contracts, and why some of the most powerful healing comes after we stop outsourcing our agency — without ever denying the harm done. 

This isn’t about blaming survivors. It’s about finding a way back to power. 

To De-Cult your news feed, sign up for Ground News using my affiliate link. 40% off the normal price. https://ground.news/checkout/all?fpr=mark93

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/
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

Cult Logic: The Self Sealing System20 Apr 202500:35:04

In this episode, Mark Vicente unpacks the concept of self-sealing systems — those airtight ideological loops used in cults, extreme religious groups, and even political tribes to block out dissent and lock members deeper into belief. Drawing from his own lived experience in NXIVM (aka ESP), Mark explains how these systems use circular logic, linguistic reframing, and fear-based conditioning to keep followers compliant and questioning outsiders.

He explores:

  • The emotional traps of “being at cause”
  • The psychological architecture of films like The Village
  • How certain keywords trigger shame, dismissal, or moral superiority
  • The chilling trend of algorithmic censorship around trauma-related crimes
  • Why courage means examining your own side — not just pointing fingers at “them”

This one might ruffle some feathers. But if no one’s pissed off… is he even doing his job?

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/

The Cult of Weaponized Introspection13 Apr 202500:26:35

In this expletive laden and unfiltered solo episode, Mark Vicente dives deep into the subtle, insidious ways abusive individuals and systems exploit our longing to grow, reflect, and “be better.” He explores the psychological unraveling that happens when introspection is hijacked to suppress personal agency.

Drawing from his lived experience in NXIVM, Mark unpacks how coercive groups often encourage relentless self-examination not to empower, but to disable. The more you question yourself, the less you question them. He shares how terms like “narcissism on a spectrum” and “interdependence” are weaponized to gaslight dissent and justify control—especially over sensitive, self-aware individuals.

The episode also takes aim at the modern digital landscape, where platforms like YouTube reward hysteria, obedience, and superficiality while shadowbanning nuanced, divergent voices. Mark wrestles with a painful dilemma: should he tailor his messaging to appease the algorithm gods—or remain steadfastly authentic and risk invisibility?

This is a reflection on the price of truth, the cost of being “too sensitive,” and the mind games that keep good people doubting themselves while abusers thrive.

Themes Explored:

 • Weaponized introspection & the psychology of disempowerment
 • Narcissistic abuse vs. healthy self-assertion
 • False narratives around “everyone’s a narcissist”
 • Coercive control in high-control groups
 • The trap of endless personal responsibility
 • Digital censorship, shadow-banning & algorithmic obedience
 • The tension between authenticity and visibility in online spaces

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/
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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mark_vicente
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markvicente/

Escaping the Lie: The Cost of Pretending Everything’s Fine w/ Josh Connolly06 Apr 202501:26:11

What happens when truth becomes your only option for survival?

In this unfiltered, emotionally honest conversation, filmmaker and whistleblower Mark Vicente sits down with Josh Connolly—a resilience coach and breathwork facilitator who’s spent over a decade helping people reconnect with their inner truth after trauma. Josh talks about growing up in a dysfunctional home, breaking out of addictive roles, and how society at large mirrors the same toxic family dynamics we try to escape.

They also dig into:
 • How addiction isn’t just about substances, but about escaping ourselves
 • The lie of spiritual bypassing and “you chose this” narratives
 • Why the ones telling the truth are often scapegoated
 • Building community without falling into cult dynamics
 • Rage, sadness, inner child work, and the daily choice to stay alive

If you’ve ever questioned your reality—or been told you’re “too sensitive”—this one’s for you.

📚 Josh’s Book:
It’s Them, Not You – How to Break Free from Toxic Parents and Reclaim Your Story
Available now: https://www.joshconnolly.co.uk

🌀 Connect with Josh:
Instagram: @joshconnolly_
Website: https://www.joshconnolly.co.uk

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
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The Hidden Dangers of High-Functioning Predators w/ Dr. Karen Mitchell28 Mar 202501:17:49

In this powerful and revealing episode, filmmaker Mark Vicente sits down with Dr. Karen Mitchell, founder of the Kalmor Institute and the author of one of the most groundbreaking PhD theses ever written on dark personalities.

https://kalmor.com.au/
https://x.com/karenmitchell__

Karen shares the results of decades of research and direct experience, unveiling a chilling but deeply important truth: narcissists, psychopaths, Machiavellians, cult leaders, toxic executives, and coercive controllers may all be subsets of one single high-level predator—what she calls the Persistent Predatory Personality (PPP).

Together, Mark and Karen explore:
- How these individuals operate in corporate, medical, religious, and legal systems
- Why many are high-functioning, charming, and completely hidden
- How academia and the justice system often enable or overlook this abuse
- Why “the mask” of empathy is often just a calculated act
- The emotional, mental, and reputational devastation experienced by targets
- Red flags to look out for—and why reporting often makes things worse before it gets better
- The tragic impact on children, families, and even democracy

This is not just a conversation about abuse. It’s a call to wake up to the patterns, the tactics, and the systems that allow this behavior to thrive. If you’ve ever dealt with narcissistic abuse, manipulation, or invisible harm—this episode is essential.

Key Topics:
- The truth behind the “Dark Triad” and the “Dark Tetrad”
- Why most research has been looking in the wrong place
- The danger of self-reporting studies when studying liars
- Coercive control: from domestic violence to cult dynamics
- Why dark personalities are attracted to power, law, medicine, and even charity work
- The difference between true predators and trauma survivors who mimic similar behaviors
- Why our society is desperately under-equipped to deal with these people

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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.

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Dignity, Trauma, Google Gods, Archeology and ‘Truth’ in a MAD World23 Mar 202500:30:18

In this solo episode, filmmaker and truth-seeker Mark Vicente shares what’s been stirring in his mind—from the deeply personal to the culturally explosive.

He starts with an exploration of dignity—what it is, why it matters, and how it’s the missing ingredient in many conversations about boundaries and self-respect. Through stories and personal insight, he dives into the internal work required to reclaim one’s worth, especially after experiences of coercive control, narcissistic abuse, or cult entanglement.

Mark also challenges the idea that we can simply "move on" from trauma. Drawing from his conversations with cult survivors, he shares why unprocessed pain never truly stays buried—and how it inevitably seeps into our relationships, our bodies, and our choices if left unhealed.

Then things take a turn: he unpacks recent archaeological discoveries beneath the Pyramid of Khafre using SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) scans—findings that seem to confirm the theories long ridiculed as "conspiracies." He calls out the mainstream resistance to new truths, especially when they disrupt long-held narratives.

This leads into a passionate reflection on shadowbanning, censorship, and algorithmic suppression—including what appears to be a deliberate silencing of a previous podcast episode featuring a Black female guest whose voice, ironically, challenges the very systems that claim to protect marginalized voices.

Lastly, Mark questions what we even mean when we say “the world.” Is it the real world—or the carefully filtered version we’ve been fed through screens, algorithms, and corporate media?

This episode is messy, real, and deeply human. It’s not about having answers—it’s about asking better questions.

If you’ve ever felt like the world’s gone mad, this one’s for you.

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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.

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Say Everything or Say Nothing? The Dilemma of Free Expression w/ Africa Brooke16 Mar 202501:09:11

In this deeply insightful and unfiltered conversation, I speak with return guest Africa Brooke. Africa is a writer, speaker, and thought leader known for her work on self-censorship, self-sabotage, and personal transformation. The discussion explores the tension between speaking one’s truth and navigating societal pressures, tribalism, and ideological conformity. Africa and I challenge listeners to reflect on their beliefs, fears, and the cost of authenticity in today’s world. This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with the tension between personal expression and societal expectations. If you've ever felt stifled, censored, or conflicted about speaking your truth, this conversation will give you the tools and reflections to navigate it with greater confidence.

Previous WTF podcast episode with Africa: Brave Expression in the Age of Intolerance

My appearance on Africa's podcast "Beyond the Self" Releasing Cult Like thinking & Rigid Identities w/ Mark Vicente

https://africabrooke.com/

Africa's Book: The Third Perspective: Brave Expression in The Age of Intolerance

An open letter: why I'm leaving the cult of wokeness by Africa Brooke

Key Topics Discussed

  • The Power & Cost of Speaking Out
    • Mark shares his journey as a whistleblower and observer of cult-like behaviors across societal structures.
    • Africa discusses self-censorship and how people suppress their true thoughts out of fear of social rejection.
  • Navigating Identity & Ideological Tribes
    • Why people are pressured to "pick a side" and the dangers of binary thinking.
    • Africa’s perspective on her book The Third Perspective: Brave Expression in the Age of Intolerance and the importance of embracing nuance.
  • Personal Freedom vs. Social Acceptance
    • Mark explores his past struggles with needing external validation for his beliefs.
    • How childhood experiences shape our willingness to express ourselves fully.
  • The Role of Specificity in Truth-Telling
    • The challenge of being specific in criticism without triggering ideological resistance.
    • Discussing controversial figures and how society justifies actions based on perceived "good vs. evil" narratives.
  • Tribalism & Cognitive Dissonance
    • Why humans instinctively form groups and resist opposing viewpoints.
    • How past societal and political manipulations have exploited this human tendency.
  • The Struggle for Authenticity in a Hyper-Polarized World
    • The psychological toll of being true to oneself while avoiding unnecessary conflict.
    • The need for deeper conversations that transcend political affiliations.


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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.

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The Female Narcissist w/ Coach Liliya Labonte23 Feb 202501:12:56

In this eye-opening episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I sit down with Coach Liliya Labonte, a specialist in narcissistic abuse and healing, to uncover a rarely discussed topic: the female narcissist. Unlike their male counterparts, female narcissists operate in uniquely insidious ways, leaving many victims questioning their reality.

Together, we explore:
✔️ The key differences between male and female narcissists
✔️ The subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs to watch for
✔️ How to protect yourself and begin the healing process

🚨 Warning: This conversation delves into emotional abuse and manipulation. Proceed with care.

https://www.liliyalabonte.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@UChO_r7A2cXqZ8A3NmIp7wyA
https://www.instagram.com/coachliliya/?hl=en
https://www.tiktok.com/@coachliliya?lang=en

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.

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The Communal Narcissist (The Cloak of Virtue)16 Feb 202500:40:02

In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I dive deep into Communal Narcissism—the most deceptive and dangerous form of narcissism. Unlike grandiose or covert narcissists, communal narcissists hide behind morality, altruism, and social justice, using a façade of selflessness to manipulate and control.

I break down:

  • The three faces of narcissism: Grandiose, Covert, and Communal
  • Why communal narcissists thrive in cults, religions, charities, and politics
  • How they manipulate people’s need for goodness
  • The psychological tricks they use to control movements and silence dissent
  • How to spot and break free from communal narcissism

If you’ve ever wondered why certain leaders, gurus, and influencers seem "too good to be true," this episode exposes the dark truth behind their carefully curated masks.

The ‘God’ Who Carries Around Some Dangerous Demons
https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2004-oct-04-oe-ehrenfeld4-story.html

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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.

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I Got Infected!02 Feb 202500:21:32

In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I explore the concept of ideological infection—the psychological trap where we become so emotionally attached to our beliefs, movements, or public figures that any challenge to them feels like a personal attack.

I break down why this happens, from cognitive biases like confirmation bias and motivated reasoning to the fight-or-flight response triggered when our worldview is questioned. I also dive into the five steps to break free from ideological capture and how to retrain our thinking to be more open, thoughtful, and independent.

This is a deep dive into how dogma, tribalism, and media manipulation shape our beliefs—and how we can resist falling into the trap.

Breaking Free: Five Steps to Escape Ideological Capture
Step 1: Recognize Emotional Triggers
Step 2: Engage With Opposing Ideas
Step 3: Adopt a Mindset of Inquiry
Step 4: Detach Identity From Beliefs
Step 5: Understand Your Brain’s Biases
Bonus Tip: Turn Off the News

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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.

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Inside the Mind of a Narcissist with Dr. Jaime Zuckerman 26 Jan 202501:05:23

In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I sit down with Dr. Jaime Zuckerman, a licensed clinical psychologist and national expert in narcissistic abuse. We dive deep into the insidious nature of narcissistic relationships, the misconceptions surrounding narcissism, and what makes narcissistic abuse so earth-shattering for its victims. Dr. Z shares her insights on how to heal from narcissistic abuse, the playbook of narcissists, and the emotional toll these relationships take. This is a powerful, eye-opening conversation for anyone seeking to understand narcissism and its impact on relationships and mental health.

https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/

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
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Narcissistic Abuse is like Radiation Poisoning19 Oct 202500:13:00

To De-Cult your news feed, sign up for Ground News using my affiliate link. 40% off the normal price. https://ground.news/checkout/all?fpr=mark93

What if narcissistic abuse doesn’t show up right away… but builds up like radiation in the body—silent, invisible, and devastating over time?

In this solo episode, recorded from Cape Town, I reflect on family lineage, legacy, and the long-term effects of being around narcissists—especially the malignant kind. Inspired by a visit to my family's grave site, I look at how the effects of unresolved pathology gets passed down through generations… and how it quietly shapes our choices, fears, and dreams (or lack of them).

We’ve been way too focused on diagnosing the “radioactive substance.” But what about the people slowly getting poisoned just by being in its presence?

Check out my other podcast, "Remember Your Greatness"
https://www.youtube.com/@UCHUIodar-kbyUr0rmst2j1g

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
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Hiding the Truth: How Suppression Fractures Us!27 Dec 202400:26:56

In this episode: I explore the concept of suppression and how it affects us personally, in families, and on a societal scale. We explore how suppressing ideas, emotions, and beliefs can lead to fragmentation and toxicity. Drawing from personal insights, psychological observations, and real-world examples, I discuss the dangers of censorship, fear-based control, and the societal consequences of suppressing inconvenient truths.

  • Suppression and censorship in personal, family, and societal contexts.
  • Narcissists, dissociation, and how suppression starts from childhood trauma.
  • The psychological impact of suppressing emotions and ideas, and how therapy aims to reclaim lost parts of ourselves.
  • How patriarchs or matriarchs suppress ideas within families to enforce control and perfection, leading to unhealthy dynamics.
  • The parallels between family suppression and societal censorship, and the false belief that silencing ideas makes them disappear.
  • Exploring how suppressed emotions and ideas fester, eventually leading to toxicity or explosive outbursts.
  • The societal obsession with censoring ideas, and the dangers of labeling opposing views as "misinformation" or "disinformation."
  • An examination of how corporations influence media narratives and the rise of propaganda.
  • Historical examples of suppressed voices, the consequences of deplatforming, and the need to question official narratives.
  • How suppressed societies eventually reach a breaking point, leading to revolts mislabeled as misinformation or conspiracy.
  • A touching story of how unburdening suppressed emotions brought freedom to a dying friend.
  • My thoughts on the societal revolt against censorship, suppression, and the control of narratives.
  • A final reflection on the dangers of hiding truths and the importance of pushing against sacred cows in pursuit of authenticity.

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
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What is CONSENT? Does Yes mean YES?22 Dec 202401:09:02

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 

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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.

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Yachts, Sex & NXIVM08 Dec 202400:25:23

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. 

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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.

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I dreamed I was back in the CULT!24 Nov 202400:30:19

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. 

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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.

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The Sky is Falling!!!03 Nov 202400:24:05

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.

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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.

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Using Fear to Control People.27 Oct 202400:14:24

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.

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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.

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From Hollywood to Healing, Navigating Pain & Confronting Dark Impulses with David Sutcliffe20 Oct 202401:25:04

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.

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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.

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What the hell is 'IDEOLOGY' anyway? w/ Richard Grannon - Livestream Replay13 Oct 202401:38:28

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.

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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.

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Captured! w/ Peter Boghossian04 Oct 202401:12:09

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

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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.

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What Keith Raniere told Alison Mack and why it's important.22 Sep 202400:18:29

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.

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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.

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Are Narcissists Born or Made? w/ Dr Peter Salerno21 Sep 202501:02:03

In this episode of WTF is on My Mind?!, I sit down with Dr. Peter Salerno — a retired psychotherapist and author who has spent decades studying personality disorders, psychopathy, and complex trauma.

Our conversation dives straight into one of the most heated debates in psychology: are narcissists shaped by trauma and upbringing, or are some people simply born with traits that evolve into full-blown disorders? Dr. Salerno challenges the conventional belief that all narcissism stems from childhood wounds, pointing to research in genetics and neuroscience that shows a far more complicated picture.

We also unpack his concept of “traumatic cognitive dissonance” — the paralyzing confusion survivors experience when an abuser deliberately installs contradictory realities in their minds. It’s not just internal conflict; it’s an engineered state of disorientation that keeps people stuck in toxic relationships and systems of control.

From there, the discussion widens: we explore how support groups can restore a shattered sense of reality, why some people lose touch with their identity after abuse, and what it really takes to rebuild a self when you were never given the space to form one in the first place. We also look at narcissistic emptiness, the myth of the “hidden shame,” and why grandiosity — not insecurity — may actually be the engine driving narcissistic behavior.

The conversation doesn’t stay confined to therapy rooms. We talk about the ways these dynamics show up in society at large — from political polarization to media manipulation — and how it all echoes the same psychological warfare found in abusive relationships.

This was a fascinating and unsettling deep dive into human psychology, which left me with a whole new lens on abuse, personality, and power.

Dr. Peter Salerno’s website: https://drpetersalerno.com
Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Dr.-Peter-Salerno/author/B09NCBTPML
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCYlLHe7DyXJiOWO7kceUAHA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpetersalerno/

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The Socratic Method vs The Merchants of Hate w/ Richard Grannon23 Aug 202400:52:44

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.

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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.

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The Rage of the 'Empaths'16 Aug 202400:26:57

The Dangers of Intolerance: Culty Behavior in Today's World

In this episode, I delve into the unsettling parallels between cult behavior and the current climate of intolerance we see online and in society. Drawing from my experiences as a whistleblower against NXIVM and my understanding of manipulative dynamics, I explore how rigid ideologies and "thought policing" mirror the very patterns of control used by cults.

Key Points Discussed:
Cults and Boundaries: How cult leaders establish unspoken rules and boundaries, making members fearful of stepping outside them.
Ethics Police: The role of "ethics police" in cults and how similar behaviors are emerging in the digital age, with individuals scrutinizing who others follow or what they say online.
Toxic Empathy: The concept of "toxic empathy," where well-meaning individuals abandon true empathy in favor of aggressively enforcing their ideological beliefs.
Labeling and Censorship: How modern-day label makers and censorship reflect cult-like mechanisms to control thought and silence dissent.
The Importance of Curiosity: Encouraging open-mindedness and empathy as antidotes to the growing societal tendency to shut down differing perspectives.

Join me as I unpack these crucial issues and encourage a more thoughtful and open approach to navigating complexity.

01:00 Recognizing the Patterns of Abuse in Cults
03:58 The Power of Label Makers in Shaping Public Opinion
09:10 The Importance of Curiosity, Open-Mindedness, and Empathy
14:49 The Dangers of Censorship and Silencing Opposing Viewpoints
19:39 Embracing Diversity of Thought

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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.

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Sex Scandal in the Gym11 Aug 202400:13:08

In this episode: I ruminate on the lack of justice in certain situations, specifically focusing on a disturbing case involving a trainer at a gym. The trainer engages in manipulative and predatory behavior, including blackmailing clients and sharing explicit videos without consent. Despite clear crimes being committed, law enforcement has been unresponsive. Also BTW - The contrast between the trainer's charming facade and his conscienceless actions is mind-boggling.

Note: A few details have been modified (the location where it takes place) to protect victims.

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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.

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"The Emperor's New Clothes" - RETOLD28 Jul 202400:20:01

In this episode: I retell the story of "The Emperor's New Clothes" by Hans Christian Anderson. Drawing parallels to our modern society, I explore concepts such as cognitive dissonance, cultic behavior, gaslighting, mass delusion, and the sunk cost fallacy. There are dire consequences for speaking the truth in a society that values conformity and obedience. I question the manipulation of public opinion and the suppression of dissenting voices.

00:00 Introduction
02:27 The Emperor's New Clothes
06:19 The Emperor's Deception and the Boy's Fate
09:44 The Emperor's Procession and Public Admiration
11:12 The Boy's Truth Denial and Condemnation
13:08 Silencing Dissent and Enforced Admiration
15:10 The Manipulation of Public Opinion
17:05 The Consequences of Speaking the Truth
18:03 Questioning the Prevailing Narratives
19:01 Closing Thoughts

Transcript on markvicente.com THOUGHTS BLOG

Translation of Hans Christian Andersen's "Keiserens Nye Klæder" by Jean Hersholt. 

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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.

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A.I. & the Hollywood Collapse? w/ Adam G. Simon18 Jul 202401:11:12

In this episode: I continue my discussion with Producer/Writer Adam G. Simon -  about A.I. this time. We look at the ethical implications of A.I. and the lack of regulations and ethical constraints in its development. Adam discusses the state of Hollywood, describing it as a corrupt industry driven by money and power. He explores the impact of A.I. on storytelling and expresses his worries about the loss of creativity and the homogenization of content.

We discuss Nolan A.I. - a creative tool that empowers writers and filmmakers by providing co-writing, coverage, and deliverable creation features. It focuses on the individual creator's style and ideas, rather than relying on pre-existing works. Adam asserts that this particular A.I. is designed to enhance creativity and provide objective feedback, eliminating biases and nepotism often found in the industry. It allows creators to retain control over their work and bypass traditional gatekeepers.

The goal is to put the power back in the hands of creatives and disrupt the current education and production systems. However, we always need to be mindful of the ethical use of A.I. and the potential for it to be misused by those in power.
 
Adam's Instagram
Adam's Article
NOLAN.AI

Chapters 
00:00 Intro 
02:00 The Assassination Attempt 
05:09 The Ethical Implications of AI 
12:41 The Corrupt Nature of Hollywood 
26:18 AI's Impact on Storytelling 
34:53 The Need for a Shake-Up in Hollywood 
35:20 Using AI like an Iron Man Suit 
37:36 Nolan AI's Focus on Individual Creativity 
40:59 Incredible Coverage and Feedback with Nolan AI 
53:57 Putting Power Back in the Hands of Creatives 
01:00:25 Objective Feedback and Eliminating Biases with Nolan AI 
01:06:09 Collaboration and Maintaining Origin of Ideas 

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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.

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From the Mormon Church to the Cult of Hollywood w/ Adam G. Simon07 Jul 202401:56:28

In this episode: I talk to Adam G. Simon, a screenwriter, producer, and actor. We discuss Adam's background as a bodyguard and close protection specialist, his experiences in the Mormon Church, and his journey of leaving the church. We also touch on the investigations department within the church and the control it exerts over its members. 

We explore themes of abuse, manipulation, and the fear of leaving a religious community. Adam discusses his journey from Mormonism to questioning and leaving the church. He talks about the indoctrination he experienced as a child and the fear-based teachings about God. 

We also explore propaganda and how it is prevalent in various aspects of society, including politics and intelligence operations. Adam emphasizes the importance of questioning and critical thinking in order to see through the lies and manipulation. He reflects on his journey as a filmmaker and the challenges he has faced in the industry. 

Adam discusses the importance of creating his own content and owning it, rather than acquiescing to the powers that be in Hollywood. He also explores the cult-like nature of the entertainment industry, highlighting the propaganda and manipulation that exists within it. 

00:00 Intro
03:11 Adam's Background as a Bodyguard and Close Protection Specialist 
13:06 The Investigations Department within the Mormon Church 
27:22 Discovering Abuse and Questioning the Church 
36:43 Leaving the Church and Facing the Consequences 
38:36 Indoctrination and Fear-based Teachings 
43:09 Questioning and Leaving the Church 
44:08 Recognizing Patterns of Propaganda 
47:30 The Power of Questioning and Critical Thinking 
52:22 Finding Truth and Authenticity 
01:19:25 Creating Your Own Content and Owning It 
01:33:20 The Cult-Like Nature of the Entertainment Industry 
01:44:12 Valuing Life and Personal Relationships 
01:50:42 Favorite Films: 'The Grey,' 'Man on Fire,' and 'Blade Runner' 

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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.

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Narcissistic Psychopaths are Molding our Society w/ Richard Grannon30 Jun 202401:03:59

In this Episode: I chat with Richard Grannon about the concept of narcissistic psychopathy and its impact on power structures and society. He delves into the characteristics of narcissistic psychopaths, their delusional and power-hungry nature, and their ability to manipulate and control others. The discussion highlights the dangers of narcissistic psychopathy becoming the dominant influence in societal structures and the need for cynicism and resistance. It also touches on the role of fantasy and ideology in shaping society, using examples like Facebook as a platform influenced by the owner's pathology. The conversation emphasizes the need for systemic collapse and rebirth to address the pervasive influence of narcissistic psychopathy. We discuss the dynamics of being internalized by a cult leader and becoming a part of their system. Richard explains how individuals in a cult become mini-me’s, adopting the fragility, hypersensitivity, and narcissistic traits of the leader. We also get into the division and the manipulation of dividing lines by those in power. Richard emphasizes that the true dividing line in humanity is between humans and psychopaths, and that everything else is a distraction. He also discusses the creation of frames of reference by those in power and the limitations of our freedoms within those frames. We conclude our chat by exploring the idea of controlling our own fantasies and choosing healthier ones to navigate the abusive relationship with our culture.

https://www.richardgrannon.com/

https://members.richardgrannon.com/narcissistic-cults-decoded-course

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:34 Defining Narcissistic Psychopathy
06:00 The Will and Intentionality in Society
08:25 The Risks and Consequences of Seeking Power
12:23 The Importance of Cynicism and Resistance
16:13 Fantasy and Ideology in Shaping Society
17:33 The Need for Systemic Collapse and Rebirth
36:19 The True Dividing Line in Humanity 
44:26 Manipulation of Frames of Reference
54:21 Terrifying Choices: Control or Free Fall
01:02:34 Controlling Our Own Fantasies

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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.

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Why We Follow Psychopaths? with Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, Edward Dutton23 Jun 202401:01:07

In this episode: A conversation with Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, Edward Dutton. We cover a wide range of topics, including the seminar on Narcissistic Psychopathy we just completed, the background of Professor Dutton, discussions on autism, the concept of heresy, controversial views, the adaptive nature of religion, and the influence of intelligence on manipulation and societal dynamics. The conversation delves into the societal shift towards dogma, the psychology of giving power to psychopathic leaders, and the departure from scientific reality. It explores the evolutionary basis for group behaviour, the impact of belief in lies on mental health, and the historical patterns of societal dogmas. We also touch on the association between traditional religiousness and mental health, as well as the impact of conformity to current beliefs on anxiety.

Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, Edward Dutton.
https://edwarddutton.com/

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and the Narcissistic Psychopathy Seminar
04:17 Understanding Autism and the Concept of Heresy
12:52 Controversial Views and Their Impact on Societal Discourse
25:05 Intelligence, Manipulation, and Societal Dynamics
31:38 The Societal Shift Towards Dogma
35:29 The Evolutionary Basis for Group Behaviour
38:47 The Impact of Belief in Lies on Mental Health
52:46 Understanding the Psychology of Giving Power to Psychopathic Leaders
57:14 The Departure from Scientific Reality

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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.

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STAY DAMAGED with comedian Rob Van Vuuren (aka Namaste Bae)14 Jun 202401:04:32

In this episode: I interview Rob van Vuuren, a comedian and actor known for his character Namaste Bae. We discuss the origins of the character, the comedy scene in South Africa, and the dangers of certainty and cult-like behavior. Rob shares how he uses comedy to process the absurdity and insanity of everyday life. We also touch on the global appeal of alternative healing and the importance of vulnerability in comedy. Rob discusses his experiences as an artist and comedian, particularly in relation to his character Namaste Bae. He talks about the challenges of creating content and the interesting questions that arise about how people perceive his character. He also discusses the cathartic nature of comedy and the importance of empathy in connecting with audiences.
https://www.instagram.com/robvanvuuren/
https://linktr.ee/robvanvuuren
Rob's stand-up comedy show:
After wildly successful national and international tours and winning the Gold Standard Bank Ovation Award at the National Arts Festival 2023, Namaste Bae: Blessings and Kombucha is back. A healing ceremony unlike any you’ve ever experienced brought to you by the new age satirical guru taking social media by storm. Some say he was born with a bottle of kombucha in one hand and a yoga mat in the other during a Vedic Shadow Planet eclipse. Some say he takes all the psychedelics so you don’t have to. Some say he is still looking for a ticket to Burning Man. Whatever they say, Namaste Bae is the guru you both need and deserve. A self proclaimed oracle of the Mother Scoby, Namaste Bae will help you find yourself inside yourself and with the power of comedic catharsis he will help you give birth to a better version of yourself. Namaste Bae is the globally viral brainchild of multi-award winning South African comedian and actor Rob van Vuuren, and will provide you with a night of healing hilarity and titillating transcendence you won’t forget!

Chapters
00:00 Namaste Bae tries to connect with Mark
03:18 The Origins of Namaste Bae
08:02 Comedy and Insanity in South Africa 
12:45 The Global Appeal and Pitfalls of Alternative Healing
13:44 Embracing Uncertainty and Fallibility
15:10 The Role of Comedy in South Africa
25:13 Finding Clarity and Responding vs Reacting 
28:55 Navigating the Seduction of Fame and Power
32:06 Controlling the Narrative and Assumptions
32:58 The Cathartic Power of Comedy
44:35 Challenging Perceptions through Comedy
52:53 The Fulfillment of the Artistic Journey
59:37 Releasing the Pressure through Comedy
01:01:03 Navigating a Confusing and Polarized World
01:04:09 Staying Curious and Finding Fulfillment as an Artist

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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.

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The Goodness Trap07 Jun 202400:28:17

In this episode: I discuss the concept of the goodness trap, where people become so attached to the idea of being good that they ignore or justify bad behavior. I explore how this trap can be seen in various contexts, such as political extremism, cults, and the protection of institutions. I also highlight the danger of virtue signaling and the need for individuals to critically examine their own ideological teams and actions. I encourage listeners to engage in nuance and self-reflection rather than simply pointing out the flaws in others.

00:00 Introduction and the Viral John Cleese Reel
03:19 Us vs. Them Mentality
08:05 The Dilemma of Protecting Institutions
14:06 Virtue Signaling and the Protection of Children
23:46 The Danger of Pretending to Be Good
26:39 Examining Our Own Teams and Engaging in Nuance

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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.

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WTF Happened to God in Psychology? w/ Richard Grannon14 Sep 202501:04:10

New Youtube Channel and Podcast - "Remember Your Greatness"

Youtube Channel   Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Mentoring

In this episode of WTF Is On My Mind?!, I sit down with Richard Grannon for a deep dive into the strange history of psychology, its blind spots, and what happens when we ignore the transpersonal, morality, and meaning.

We ask the uncomfortable questions: Why did Freud’s worldview win out over Jung and Adler? What does it say about power, narcissism, and control in the human psyche? And what have we lost by pushing aside God, spirituality, and morality in the therapeutic process?

This conversation weaves through:
• Freud’s cult-like hold on psychoanalysis and why his ideas gained dominance
• Jung’s brilliance and vagueness — and how hippies and bypassers misused him
• Adler’s radical focus on responsibility and courage, and why it’s so confronting
• How cult leaders twist legitimate psychological insights into tools of abuse
• Why psychology struggles with replication, science envy, and false authority
• The role of morality in healing trauma (and even reshaping the brain)
• The dangers of abandoning spirituality after cult abuse — and what gets lost
• The God question: authoritarian caricatures vs. transcendent awe
• How nature, dreams, and mystical experience provide real breakthroughs
• Science, uncertainty, and the humility we need to face the mystery of existence

Richard and I don’t hold back — we talk about cults, coercion, narcissism, spirituality, and the deep hunger for meaning in a postmodern world. Whether you’ve wrestled with therapy, spirituality, or the aftermath of high-control systems, this one cuts right to the bone.

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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.

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BRAINWASHED! - with Behavioural Scientist and Author Patrick Fagan31 May 202401:06:51

In this Episode: Author, Lecturer & Behavioural Scientist Patrick Fagan and I delve into the topics of brainwashing, propaganda, manipulation, and the impact of psychological tactics on behaviour. We explore the influence of communication, media, and societal forces on individuals, as well as the role of trauma and vulnerability in susceptibility to manipulation. The discussion also touches on the concept of the 'blip' and its role in creating vulnerability, as well as the use of psychological tactics in intelligence and political agendas. We also cover the manipulation techniques used in propaganda, brainwashing, and influence and explore the impact of cognitive biases, the power of visual imagery, and the illusion of control. Finally, we talk about immunity from manipulation and the internal journey of self-awareness and humility.

FREE YOUR MIND: The new world of manipulation and how to resist it.
Written by Laura Dodsworth & Patrick Fagan

Laura is an Author, Journalist and Photographer.

Patrick is a Behavioural Scientist, Author & Lecturer

Weaponizing Filmmaking

GHOSTS IN THE MACHINE 1

GHOSTS IN THE MACHINE 2

Chapters
00:00 The Influence of Brainwashing and Propaganda
19:28 The Vulnerability of the 'Blip'
21:18 Psychological Tactics and Manipulation
28:01 Intelligence, Politics, and Psychological Influence
33:19 Unraveling Manipulation Techniques
42:15 The Power of Visual Imagery
47:30 The Illusion of Control and Cognitive Biases
59:39 Developing Immunity from Manipulation
01:03:22 The Journey of Self-Awareness and Humility

brainwashing, propaganda, manipulation, psychological tactics, communication, media, societal influence, trauma, vulnerability, blip, psychological resistance, intelligence, political agendas, propaganda, brainwashing, cognitive biases, visual imagery, illusion of control, immunity, self-awareness, humility

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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
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NXIVM's War Against Hate04 May 202400:36:50
Art as Medicine with filmmaker Lubomir Arsov19 Apr 202401:16:26

KINGDOM ANIMATED SHORT

https://www.lubomirarsov.com/

IN SHADOW

Beyond The Self with Africa Brooke - releasing cult-like thinking & rigid identities - with Mark Vicente

The conversation between Mark Vicente and Lubomir explores the creative process, the power of visual storytelling, and the challenges of staying true to one's artistic vision. They discuss the importance of depth and emotional resonance in art, as well as the resistance and criticism that often arise when pushing boundaries. The conversation also touches on the themes of truth, personal growth, and the struggle to break free from societal norms. Overall, the discussion highlights the transformative power of art and the courage required to create meaningful work. In this conversation, Mark Vicente and Lubomir discuss the themes and messages in Lubomir's film 'Kingdom'. They explore the concepts of freedom, redemption, and the power of the individual to break free from oppressive systems. They also discuss the role of art in inspiring and empowering people. The film is praised for its visceral and emotional impact, and the audience feedback has been positive. Lubomir shares his thoughts on the importance of imagination and the potential for redemption in even the most damaged individuals. They also discuss the intellectual and emotional responses to the film and the power of visual storytelling.

00:00 Introduction
07:39 The Frustration of Finding Projects that Match Values
16:15 The Emotional Connection in Filmmaking
33:41 The Personal and Collective Resistance to Truth
41:51 The Challenge of Portraying the Transcendent
53:24 The Battle of Coercion and Oppression
01:05:29 The Potential Impact and Future Projects

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/

Brave Expression in the Age of Intolerance with Africa Brooke09 Apr 202401:51:52

AFRICA BROOKE

Preorder Africa's Book:
The Third Perspective: Brave Expression in The Age of Intolerance (out May 2024)

An open letter: why I'm leaving the cult of wokeness by Africa Brooke

Course with Richard Grannon
DECODING CULTS & NARCISSISTS

Other Podcasts with Africa
Triggernometry - They've Weaponised Guilt and Shame

Mikhaila Peterson Podcast - A Change of Heart Towards Jordan

Diary of a CEO - Victimhood & Self-sabotage Is Destroying The World

This conversation between Mark Vicente and Africa Brooke explores the themes of conformity, cult tactics, and the importance of individual values. Africa shares her experiences growing up in Zimbabwe and the impact of her ancestors' fight for freedom. They discuss the concept of the maverick mindset, which involves being an independent thinker and going against the grain. Africa emphasizes the need to focus on both the inner mob (self-censorship) and the external mob (societal pressure) in order to navigate expression and stand up for what is true. The conversation highlights the power of laughter and the importance of friendship and connection. Africa shares her experiences of growing up in an abusive household and the impact it had on her self-censorship and behavior. She describes the constant unpredictability and shifting dynamics in her father's behavior, which led to her developing a pattern of self-sabotage and addiction. Africa reflects on the duality of her childhood, with moments of joy and escape outside the home contrasting with the darkness within. She discusses her journey to sobriety and the realization that she was more comfortable in chaos than in stability. Africa also touches on her decision to leave the 'cult of wokeness' and the parallels between her experiences of addiction and the need for validation in the social justice movement. In this part of the conversation, Africa and Mark discuss the challenges of being labeled as an activist and the pressure to conform to certain ideologies. Africa shares her experience of being labeled as an activist and how it led to a focus on race and identity. She also discusses the dangers of cancel culture and the pressure to conform to certain beliefs. Mark and Africa explore the concept of self-censorship and the inner mob in our minds that prevents us from expressing ourselves authentically. They emphasize the importance of self-reflection and self-awareness in communication.

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/

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Podcast WTF is on my Mind?! par Mark Vicente Épisodes | My Podcast Data