Self-help’s Intensifying Flirtation with Conspiracy Theories

Conspiracy theories are on the rise in many areas of our society, and this holds true within the self-help industry, especially since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Jean and Glenn discuss this situation, shedding some light on why it is that conspiracies fit so easily into the realm of self-help–an industry that has often presented itself as an alternative to the mainstream.

But while the fringes have long been comfortable territory for self-help, these conspiracy theories seem to be taking up more space and pushing the industry into more political territory as well, which feels like a newer development. Ultimately, we find ourselves asking more questions than offering answers at this point.

Also mentioned in this episode: 

“The Problem with Tony Robbins” by MüneCat on YouTube

“$10.4 Billion Self-improvement Market Pivots to Virtual Delivery During the Pandemic” by John LaRosa for MarketResearch.com

“We Need to Talk about the Rise of White Supremacy in Yoga” by Arusha Wijeyakumar in InStyle

@ShantiWithin on Instagram

“How Dangerous is Jordan B. Peterson, the Rightwing Professor who “Hit a Hornet’s Nest'?”

in The Guardian

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