Disaffected Newsletter

Disaffected Newsletter explores societal, cultural, and political issues through the lens of personal trauma and abnormal psychology. It discusses manipulation in relationships, the impact of family dynamics, toxic femininity, immigration, political loyalties, modern taboos, and societal divides, offering critiques of contemporary norms and policies.

Societal Divides Cultural Critiques Family Dynamics Politics and Leadership Mental Health Gender and Identity Immigration Media and Public Perception

The hottest Substack posts of Disaffected Newsletter

And their main takeaways

Fascism begins in the home, yes it does

599 implied HN points • 03 Sep 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Behavior Authority Child abuse Public Discourse Mental health
  1. Fascism can start in the home, especially when family dynamics include abuse and manipulation. What happens in a household can affect wider society.
  2. Certain harmful behaviors, like narcissism and emotional abuse, are found in both families and political leaders. They can shape how people act in public roles.
  3. When a leader attacks large groups of citizens and labels them negatively, it often shows authoritarian tendencies. This kind of behavior echoes the treatment found in abusive family situations.

PREMIERE: Fair Game

339 implied HN points • 19 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local Politics LGBTQ+ Issues Public Policy Activism Government
  1. A new resolution in Burlington, Vermont, supports the LGBTQIA+ community but has also sparked controversy and accusations against local community members.
  2. Public comments during the council meeting included serious accusations, with some residents claiming that LGBTQIA advocates are harmful to children and calling for severe actions against them.
  3. The episode will detail the intense discussions and claim threats made against individuals who oppose the resolution, highlighting a significant divide in the community.

Godspeed Burt Bacharach

359 implied HN points • 10 Feb 23
🎶 Music Artists Genres History Albums Culture
  1. Burt Bacharach was a significant musician whose music will be remembered.
  2. His passing is felt deeply by fans and listeners who cherish his contributions.
  3. Music has the power to connect people, creating lasting memories and emotions.

A Child Shall Lead Them

379 implied HN points • 23 Jan 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics
  1. Schools in Burlington, Vermont are reportedly teaching children about sexual topics and identity issues, which some see as problematic.
  2. When children are seen as wise and put in adult roles, it can lead to their exploitation and is often viewed as a negative trend.
  3. The discussion also includes criticisms of celebrities and modern art, showing a mix of serious and humorous commentary.
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Decades later

539 implied HN points • 11 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Identity Community Values Patriotism Critique
  1. Living in a different culture can be challenging, and it’s common to feel like an outsider. Understanding others takes effort and openness.
  2. We can often misjudge people's actions based on our own biases. Sometimes, it’s important to recognize the good in others, even if they seem different.
  3. Over the years, perspectives can change. What once seemed fake or shallow might reveal deeper values like patriotism and community support.

Funeral for a Fried Friend

479 implied HN points • 26 Oct 22
🍲 Food & Drink Food Trends Pandemic impact Culinary culture
  1. The pandemic changed what groceries were available, leading to unusual food options in stores. Many brands were replaced with local products due to supply chain issues.
  2. Frozen chicken-fried steak fritters became a popular item in grocery stores but didn't sell well with some customers. The writer expresses a strong fondness for this dish, calling it 'little pieces of heaven.'
  3. The fritters are now on clearance, and the writer plans to buy the remaining stock. They humorously suggest holding a 'funeral' for the product to mark its passing from the shelves.

Godspeed, Olivia Newton-John

579 implied HN points • 08 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Music Aging Memories Loss Nostalgia
  1. Losing famous figures can remind us of our own memories and experiences from the past. It's not just about their death but about the changes we've seen over time.
  2. Middle age can bring a mix of clarity and contentment, but it also comes with a feeling of loss as we realize how fleeting life can be.
  3. Seeing things from our childhood age and fade can lead to a deeper understanding of life's temporary nature and evoke feelings of mourning.

Statement from a founder of the modern gay liberation movement, Fred Sargeant

499 implied HN points • 03 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture LGBTQ Rights Social movements Identity politics Activism History
  1. Fred Sargeant played a key role in the modern gay liberation movement. He helped push for more rights and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community.
  2. His statement highlights the ongoing struggles and challenges faced by the community. It serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for equal rights.
  3. Sargeant's perspective is valuable for understanding the history and evolution of LGBTQ+ activism. Learning from pioneers can inspire and guide future movements.

Trans-Reality

399 implied HN points • 18 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Media representation Policy Analysis Current Events Social Commentary
  1. A person known for stealing women's underwear has faced serious consequences from the Department of Energy.
  2. The first transgender Navy SEAL has changed their mind and is publicly expressing regret about supporting transgender issues.
  3. A platform called Patreon has significantly reduced funding for a content creator, prompting a call for listener support.

Episode 100-Happy New Year!

379 implied HN points • 01 Jan 23
🎙 Podcasts Media Culture Comedy Entertainment Current affairs
  1. Katie Porter, a California Democrat, fired a staffer who she claims exposed her to Covid, affecting her ability to care for her children.
  2. The episode includes fun stories about the host's past, like his experiences as a young gay boy and engaging in prank calls.
  3. There's a unique segment on kerosene lighting, featuring live demonstrations to showcase how it works.

Episode 102: Put Up or Shut Up

359 implied HN points • 16 Jan 23
🎙 Podcasts Media Culture Society Politics Psychology
  1. Ontario's psychology board is putting pressure on Jordan Peterson, asking him to write a public letter to keep his license. This has raised concerns about freedom of speech and professional integrity.
  2. An activist group called Gays Against Groomers is raising alarms about the dangers of transitioning minors, likening it to Munchausen's Syndrome by Proxy, which has sparked significant debate.
  3. There is growing fear in society about things like gas cookstoves, showing how easy it is for people to panic and stop thinking critically about issues.

These are the people in my neighborhood!

499 implied HN points • 09 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Sociology Media Identity Humor Lifestyle
  1. The writer describes quirky characters in their neighborhood, giving them playful names and personalities. Each character has unique likes and dislikes that reflect their traits.
  2. One character, 'Toine', seems confident and focused on their appearance, while another character, Velma, has a tough, rebellious vibe with a strong stance against meat-eaters.
  3. The descriptions include humor and exaggeration, making the neighborhood feel vibrant and full of life, even in mundane settings like a grocery store.

Stop it.

539 implied HN points • 05 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Public Policy Social justice Civil Rights
  1. The idea of creating more spaces for gender nonconforming individuals is seen as unnecessary. There’s a belief that society should not have to accommodate what some may consider delusions about gender.
  2. The push for inclusivity in spaces, like bathrooms or sports teams, is criticized for being costly and emotionally draining for others. It suggests that these efforts are not true kindness but rather complicity in a harmful agenda.
  3. There’s a strong opinion that accommodating these demands is a step toward losing personal boundaries and safety. The idea is that such actions are not for genuine concern but rather a means of exerting control over societal norms.

Episode 104: This is Absurd!

339 implied HN points • 30 Jan 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Mental health Corporate ethics Censorship Feminism
  1. A Pfizer consultant was caught saying the company is changing the Covid virus for profit, which raises serious ethical questions.
  2. There's a noticeable link between being a white liberal woman and experiencing mental health issues, which has sparked important discussions.
  3. People in America are censoring themselves more than ever in conversations, and this new norm needs to be recognized as a problem.

HELP us stand up for kids!

459 implied HN points • 30 Sep 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism Social Issues LGBTQ Rights Children's rights Free speech
  1. There's a big protest happening about children's rights regarding gender identity. People are concerned about how kids can be harmed by medical transitions.
  2. The protest is supported by a group that wants to separate the LGB community from transgender activism. They believe there are different interests and issues at stake.
  3. If you can't attend the protest, you can support it by watching it online and spreading the word. It's important to many who feel strongly about these topics.

Intellectual loneliness

519 implied HN points • 26 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Identity Mental health Community Expression Philosophy
  1. Intellectual loneliness means feeling alone in your thoughts and ideas, especially when contemplating complex subjects. It can be tiring and heavy to navigate these deep thoughts without others who understand.
  2. Discussing sensitive topics, like the connection between homosexuality and mental health, can lead to feeling morally isolated. Some may judge these discussions as controversial or unsafe.
  3. There's a strong desire for open and honest conversations with others, particularly within the gay community. It's hard to find spaces where people can share their feelings without fear of defensiveness.

Mental bric-a-brac

539 implied HN points • 28 Jun 22
🎭️ Culture Society Philosophy Politics Psychology Art
  1. Ghost stories can be really scary, even if someone doesn't believe in ghosts. It's interesting how fear can make us question what we are truly afraid of.
  2. The idea that both political sides are equally bad is troubling. It can lead to people ignoring the real issues happening and wanting to stay in their comfort zone.
  3. Feeling alone in your political and moral beliefs can be heavy. It's nice to meet people who share your views, but that doesn't always lighten the emotional burden.

Episode 106: Das Ray-ciss!

299 implied HN points • 13 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Racism Surrogacy Criminal Justice Media Commentary Social Issues
  1. Some people believe it's okay for people of color to express racist views towards white people, and they argue that it's not actually racism.
  2. There are women attracted to men in prison, and they openly share their feelings about these relationships.
  3. The idea of commercial surrogacy is viewed by some as a form of human trafficking, and it raises concerns about the ethics of buying and selling babies.

It's Candy

239 implied HN points • 19 Apr 23
🎶 Music Genres Artists History Analysis Culture
  1. The post seems to focus on music, possibly as a fun or enjoyable experience. Music often provides a way to connect and feel good.
  2. There is a sense of community with an invitation to share the content and invite others to listen. Sharing music can create bonds between people.
  3. The mention of being reader-supported suggests that the content is influenced by what the audience wants. Feedback and support can help shape the direction of future posts.

Merry Christmas

339 implied HN points • 26 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Traditions Celebrations Holidays Art Community
  1. It's important to spread joy and express warm wishes during the holiday season. A simple 'Merry Christmas' can make someone's day better.
  2. Connecting with others, whether through social media or in person, helps strengthen relationships during festive times.
  3. Supporting creators and writers by subscribing to their content can make a big difference in their ability to share their work.

Disaffected Watch Party: Feud, Part IV

179 implied HN points • 04 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Film Television Media Entertainment Pop culture
  1. Join the watch party for 'Feud: Bette and Joan' to enjoy some entertaining drama. It's a fun event for fans of the show.
  2. The series features a rivalry between two famous actresses, adding excitement and intrigue to the story. You'll see how their competition unfolds.
  3. To participate, you need to be a paying supporter, but there’s a chance to get a free trial to check it out. It's a great way to connect with others who enjoy the series.

Humans have a nature

499 implied HN points • 20 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Human nature Psychology Identity Socialization
  1. Humans have a natural temperament that includes differences between sexes. These differences aren't just socially made; they come from biology too.
  2. Early experiences shape who we are, but that doesn't erase our natural characteristics. Both biology and environment play a role in developing our personalities.
  3. Accepting differences in sex psychology can help us understand each other better. It's not about limiting roles but noticing patterns in how men and women generally behave.

Thank you, readers

439 implied HN points • 07 Sep 22
🎙 Podcasts Media Writing Subscription Content creation Support
  1. Writers often need support from their readers for motivation and financial stability. It's not easy to make a living through writing alone.
  2. Gratitude toward readers is important; those who subscribe contribute meaningfully to a writer's success.
  3. Building a sustainable writing career takes time and effort, especially in today's challenging environment.

Dear Sarah Lawrence College

419 implied HN points • 01 Sep 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Culture Free speech Activism Ideology
  1. The author feels ashamed of their degree from Sarah Lawrence College, seeing it as linked to negative aspects of modern education. They believe the school promotes a 'woke' ideology that they find problematic.
  2. While they had a good personal experience at the college, they now see the education they received as potentially leading to a closed-minded worldview.
  3. The author emphasizes the importance of questioning authoritarian thinking and being aware of different perspectives outside their college education.

Men and Women Have Different Discursive Styles

419 implied HN points • 18 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Communication styles Social Dynamics Identity politics
  1. Men and women often communicate differently, leading to misunderstandings. Some women might expect a more gentle approach, while some men are more direct and blunt.
  2. When someone focuses on feelings rather than the core message, it can feel disrespectful. It's important to engage with the actual content instead of just correcting someone's tone.
  3. Not all men are aligned with women's issues, and everyone has their own unique perspectives. It's important to recognize that each person's approach to discussion can vary significantly.

No Forgiveness

339 implied HN points • 07 Nov 22
🎙 Podcasts Media Communication Entertainment Culture Analysis
  1. Forgiveness can be difficult for some people. It's okay to feel that way and not force it.
  2. Holding onto anger is a personal choice, and it can be a way to protect oneself. Everyone deals with conflict differently.
  3. It's important to process feelings and not rush to forgive just because others expect it. Everyone has their own pace in healing.

I don't wanna talk about it right now

259 implied HN points • 31 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Music Self-care Emotions Mental health Lifestyle
  1. When something bad happens, it's okay to take time for yourself and feel sad. Everyone needs a break to heal sometimes.
  2. Listening to music can be comforting when you're feeling down. A good song can really help lift your mood.
  3. Showing kindness to others can make a big difference, especially when they're struggling. A little support can go a long way.

Learning how to do 'family'

359 implied HN points • 25 Aug 22
  1. Family support can be incredibly comforting, especially during tough times. It makes you feel cared for when someone is there for you.
  2. Past family experiences can make trusting family dynamics challenging, even in adulthood. It's important to recognize and manage any old triggers you may have.
  3. Enjoying simple moments together, like cooking a meal or sharing a movie, can strengthen family bonds. These moments help create good memories despite past struggles.

Members-only watch party for Feud

179 implied HN points • 21 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Television Film Media Entertainment Events
  1. The next watch party for 'Feud: Bette and Joan' will be on April 27 at 5 PM Eastern Time. Make sure to check your local time, so you don’t miss it.
  2. To join the watch party, you need a subscription to the Substack. The Zoom link will be available after signing up.
  3. There’s a free 7-day trial for the Substack, so you can explore more content before committing.

Tech troubles

299 implied HN points • 24 Oct 22
🎙 Podcasts Production Tech Support Content Community
  1. Tech issues can happen unexpectedly and cause delays in plans. It's important to stay patient during these times.
  2. Communication about problems is key; letting people know what's going on can help maintain support.
  3. Working on fixing problems shows commitment and can lead to better outcomes in the future.

Cutting the Cord

259 implied HN points • 15 Dec 22
🎙 Podcasts Mental health Personal Growth Self-care
  1. It's important to protect yourself and your family from toxic relationships, even if they are with parents.
  2. Many people struggle with feelings of self-doubt after experiencing abuse, questioning if they are to blame.
  3. Supporting creators can help them continue their work, especially when facing financial challenges.

Female Narcissism: Motorist Edition

359 implied HN points • 04 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Behavior Gender Society Identity Social norms
  1. There seems to be a noticeable shift in driving behavior, with some women driving more aggressively than men compared to 10-15 years ago.
  2. This change in how women drive is linked to a cultural attitude that excuses their bad behavior, often saying they are just overwhelmed or that it’s a response to misogyny.
  3. The idea of female empowerment often gets tied to this aggressive behavior, as some women actively react badly when challenged for their dangerous driving.

Expose Yourself

359 implied HN points • 04 Aug 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Coping Strategies Personal Growth Self-help
  1. Facing your fears can reduce their power over you. When you take steps to confront what scares you, like crossing a scary bridge, it can actually make it easier over time.
  2. Developing personal techniques to cope with anxiety is important. Things like distraction or reminding yourself that you are safe can make a difference.
  3. Avoiding situations that trigger your fears can sometimes make them worse. Instead, tackling those situations head-on might help you feel more in control and less anxious.

A Goodbye Love Letter to Madonna Ciccone

359 implied HN points • 09 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Music Pop culture Identity Feminism Art
  1. Madonna has had a huge impact on pop culture, especially for gay men, because of her bold and confident persona. Many admired her for challenging social norms and embracing her sexuality.
  2. Her life experiences, including childhood trauma and complex relationships, have influenced her music and public image. This has led to discussions about her mental health and the struggles that shaped her identity.
  3. As Madonna ages, there is a sense of loss as she moves away from her iconic status. Observers feel she has transformed from a trailblazing artist into someone who seems trapped by her past and struggles with self-identity.

Unpopular Correlations

339 implied HN points • 21 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Psychology Gender Politics Social Issues Media
  1. There seems to be a pattern where many gay men have challenging family relationships, particularly with their mothers and fathers. This may have an impact on their experiences and identities.
  2. Some believe that women with unstable emotional states are strongly represented in hard left political movements. Their communication can often include extreme emotional responses and denial of certain facts.
  3. Social media behavior can be revealing, like excessive political posts or personal photos that seem more focused on image than connection. This might highlight emotional issues in the person's life.