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

Do you even Constitution?

359 implied HN points • 10 Jun 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitution Rights Governance Law Civics
  1. Most people misunderstand their rights and think they need the law to permit them to do something. In reality, rights come from being human, not from being written down in laws.
  2. The framers of the Constitution worried that people would feel their rights were limited to what was specifically listed. They emphasized that we have more rights than what is written in the Constitution.
  3. This misunderstanding can lead to accepting unjust government actions like executive orders or mandates because people think they need permission to act without specific laws.

Check in

299 implied HN points • 30 Aug 22
🎙 Podcasts Media Communications Entertainment Personal Growth Support
  1. The account on Twitter has been banned again without clear reasons, highlighting frustrations with the platform's rules.
  2. The host expresses a desire to grow the show and speaks openly about societal issues while also needing financial support.
  3. The host is seeking support from readers to become paid subscribers on Substack to help sustain the work they are doing.

Episode 110: Transactional Wokeness

179 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Activism Media Social Issues
  1. A woman who attacked a gay man at a Pride event only received community service, showing a lenient response to hate crimes.
  2. A significant donation from a controversial crypto company helped a candidate's election efforts, raising questions about funding sources in politics.
  3. The episode includes humorous commentary on social media posts that are seen as shallow or annoying, reflecting on the current cultural climate.

Burlington Gay Bash

279 implied HN points • 26 Sep 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics LGBTQ+ Issues Social movements Cultural Conflict Activism Identity politics
  1. A founder of the gay pride movement was attacked by members of the LGBTQ community in Burlington. This incident highlights tensions within the community itself.
  2. The discussion will focus on recognizing manipulative behaviors and understanding how to effectively respond to them. It's important to be aware of these tactics.
  3. In confrontations, sometimes a gentle approach isn’t the best choice. Knowing when to adjust your tone is key to effective communication.

Why aren't you more conservative?

359 implied HN points • 03 Jun 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Beliefs Social Issues Abortion rights Cultural shift
  1. People often grow more conservative as they age, but some do not due to changes in their beliefs about the left's social issues. They feel abandoned by the left, but their ideas haven't shifted much.
  2. The author reflects on how their old beliefs about welfare and social issues changed after questioning the foundation of those ideas. They now see certain welfare policies as unhelpful rather than supportive.
  3. Shifts in views about topics like abortion and the gender wage gap indicate that some are reconsidering accepted narratives and how they match reality. It's important to stay open to changing one's beliefs based on new evidence.
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And I know that love will take us away from here

179 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Philosophy Faith
  1. Love has the power to change our situation and take us to new places. It can help us escape tough times.
  2. Supporting each other through love is important for personal growth and happiness. Together, we can face challenges better.
  3. Communicating openly about feelings can strengthen relationships. Sharing thoughts and emotions creates deeper connections.

Episode 85: Don't you know that you're toxic?

279 implied HN points • 12 Sep 22
🎙 Podcasts Audio Content Social Commentary Pop culture Entertainment Media Critique
  1. People often don't realize how their behavior can be harmful to others. It's important to reflect on our actions and their impact.
  2. Acknowledging our toxic traits can lead to personal growth. Understanding ourselves better helps us improve our relationships.
  3. Communication is key in addressing toxicity. Open conversations can help clear misunderstandings and mend relationships.

What hope do we have?

279 implied HN points • 01 Sep 22
📖 Philosophy Human nature Trust Issues Self-deception Cynicism
  1. People often cling to lies even when they know the truth. This can be seen in how they react to undeniable evidence.
  2. Everyone is capable of accepting falsehoods, not just 'bad' or 'stupid' people. It's a common human experience that can shape one's life negatively.
  3. Doubts about societal and governmental care can lead to feelings of disillusionment. Many people feel that policies may do more harm than good, and that true concern is often self-serving.

Gay men on "Team Terf"

279 implied HN points • 03 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism Social justice Conservative Views Identity politics
  1. Some gay men align with TERF views, but they may not be safe from backlash themselves. Being part of this group does not guarantee protection from criticism or attacks.
  2. The argument suggests that TERFs see men, including gay men, as tools for their own ideology. Men are viewed as accessories rather than equals in this perspective.
  3. Once gay men express views that contradict TERF beliefs, they risk being labeled as misogynists and face social media consequences. Their support can quickly turn to hostility.

Mutual Mistrust

319 implied HN points • 03 Jun 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Feminism Political Power Social Dynamics Cultural critique Identity politics
  1. There's a feeling of mistrust between different groups of people, like men and feminists. This mistrust often makes conversations difficult.
  2. Some feminists believe women only have power if they are equal to men in certain roles. However, many women hold power in cultural ways that might be overlooked.
  3. When men express their opinions, they can often be treated with condescendence by feminist women. This reaction reinforces the cycle of mutual mistrust.

The Lottery

239 implied HN points • 02 Oct 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests GOP Public Opinion Political Campaigns
  1. There was a live protest against child-transitioning activities in Vermont, highlighting strong community feelings on the topic.
  2. There were discussions about how silent protesters faced angry reactions, showing how charged the situation was for everyone involved.
  3. The author is facing a tough time at work due to a smear campaign, which is affecting their career after 20 years.

It's time for us to hang out again

179 implied HN points • 16 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Film Events Media Community Psychology
  1. The Zoom hangouts are starting back up after a busy holiday period. It's a chance to reconnect and have fun together.
  2. There will be a movie screening of 'Ordinary People' on January 29, 2023. It's a classic film that explores family dynamics in tough situations.
  3. After the movie, there will be time to discuss it with everyone. It's a great way to enjoy a film and share thoughts with friends.

You Brought This On Yourself

259 implied HN points • 15 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Health Policies Media Critique Public Opinion Social Issues
  1. Feminists are facing harassment from other women for opposing certain views, highlighting a division in the movement.
  2. The closure of a controversial clinic in the UK is a step forward, but challenges still remain.
  3. There was a recent TV segment that raised concerns about a serious issue, but many people seemed unaware or indifferent to it.

Episode 96: Escape Plan

199 implied HN points • 28 Nov 22
🎙 Podcasts Media Interviews Analysis Discussion Culture
  1. The media focuses heavily on crime stories, but sometimes they miss important details or surprising information about the suspects involved. This means we can't always trust the initial headlines we read.
  2. The Karpman Drama Triangle explains a common pattern of behavior in toxic relationships, and understanding it can help people break free from those unhealthy dynamics.
  3. Barbara Wegner's work encourages people to recognize the 'drama' in modern interactions, making it easier to distance themselves from negativity and gain control over their lives.

Why aren't you watching my show?

259 implied HN points • 09 Aug 22
🎙 Podcasts Media Communication Entertainment Culture Audience engagement
  1. The show discusses challenging topics related to societal issues. It's meant to provoke thought and conversation about current cultural debates.
  2. There is audience engagement, with feedback from viewers sharing their experiences and feelings about social topics.
  3. The creator is seeking to understand why more people are not tuning in, highlighting a desire for a wider audience and connection.

The New Red Menace

239 implied HN points • 05 Sep 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Climate Government Policy Social Issues Political Commentary Public Opinion
  1. The term 'New Red Menace' refers to a modern fear or threat that is seen as dangerous. People are often looking for new sources of concern in society.
  2. This idea can sometimes lead to heightened emotions and reactions; it encourages people to react strongly to what's perceived as a threat.
  3. Understanding these fears can help in discussing and addressing social issues calmly instead of provoking panic or division.

'Ordinary People' Screening Sunday, Jan 29

159 implied HN points • 29 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Film Theater Literature Art Media
  1. There is a screening of the movie 'Ordinary People' on January 29 at 2:30 pm Eastern Time on Zoom. It's a good idea to check your local time zone for the correct time.
  2. The film is praised for its strong portrayal of parental narcissism, with Mary Tyler Moore giving a standout performance as a cold and repressed mother.
  3. Paid subscribers can access the link for the screening, and there's an option for a 7-day free trial for new subscribers.

Assisted Suicide

179 implied HN points • 16 Dec 22
🏥 Health Politics Medical Ethics Public Policy End of Life Care Patient rights
  1. Assisted suicide is a complex and emotional topic that many people face, especially those with terminal illnesses. It raises important questions about how we support those in suffering.
  2. In some places, like Canada, the approach to physician-assisted suicide is becoming more common and complicated. This shift impacts many lives and decisions.
  3. Personal experiences with assisted suicide can be profound and challenging. Sharing these stories helps us understand the real-life implications of this practice.

Show announcement from Shelby's dest

199 implied HN points • 25 Oct 22
🎙 Podcasts Media Entertainment Communication Culture Technology
  1. The post is announcing a show related to the Disaffected Podcast. It's likely aimed at engaging the audience and sharing updates.
  2. There are options for readers to support the publication by becoming subscribers, either for free or by paying.
  3. The mention of social media sharing options suggests that spreading the word about the show is encouraged.

Someone you should read

219 implied HN points • 31 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Literature Personal essays Family Dynamics Immigration Identity
  1. Ines Sabet's blog covers her experiences as a German emigrate to the US. She reflects on different topics, including family dynamics.
  2. Her latest post is very personal, sharing how she thinks and how others perceive her. This shows vulnerability in her writing.
  3. Reading her blog can provide insights into her unique perspective and experiences, making it a recommended read.

Things Gay Men Like

239 implied HN points • 21 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Identity Lifestyle Entertainment Social norms Fandom
  1. Gay men enjoy a range of interests, including antiques and classic cars. These hobbies often reflect a sense of nostalgia and style.
  2. Many gay men share a fondness for soap operas and pop culture icons like Madonna, showing their appreciation for drama and entertainment.
  3. Social gatherings like brunch and a playful lifestyle are also important, highlighting the value of friendship and fun in their lives.

Episode 94: The New Normal

179 implied HN points • 13 Nov 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Identity Society Behavior
  1. The mid-term elections may involve crazy voters or cheating; both possibilities need to be considered.
  2. It's important to distinguish between feeling like a victim and actually being victimized, as the difference can change how we view issues.
  3. Public indecency has become common in society, which makes it hard to understand the current state of the American electorate.

"It's a male fetish"

239 implied HN points • 30 Jun 22
🎭️ Culture Gender Issues Mental health Sexuality Identity Feminism
  1. This issue is not just a male problem, as women can also experience similar attractions. It's important to understand that these feelings might stem from specific personality disorders rather than being merely a feature of male identity.
  2. Labeling this behavior as 'male' prevents us from addressing the core psychological issues at play. We need to focus on the mental health aspects rather than assigning blame based on gender.
  3. Ignoring that some women can share these traits keeps us from finding a real solution. Both men and women can have complex psychological challenges that should be openly discussed.

Reality Optional-Episode 89

159 implied HN points • 10 Oct 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Journalism Protests Health Policy Media Critique Transgender Issues
  1. Media often responds untruthfully to protests and events, which can skew public perception. It's important to critically evaluate news coverage.
  2. Journalism has shifted towards misleading narratives rather than factual reporting. Trust in news sources has become a significant issue.
  3. Some medical institutions are reevaluating their practices regarding gender transition surgeries for minors, indicating a growing concern in the medical community.

These Dreams

199 implied HN points • 06 Jul 22
📚 Literature Memoir Personal narrative Mental health Family Dynamics
  1. Dreams can be a reflection of unfinished business in our lives. They might show us fears or unresolved issues we need to face.
  2. Tornadoes and plane crashes can symbolize deep-seated anxieties. These events often haunt dreams and can relate to feelings of fear and helplessness.
  3. Acknowledging past trauma is important for healing. Recognizing and understanding what our dreams tell us can lead to a better understanding of ourselves.

Do you need advice on a difficult person?

179 implied HN points • 04 Aug 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Self-help Wellness Tips Interpersonal Skills
  1. Some people in your life may have difficult personalities, like Cluster B disorders. These people can act hurtful or confusing, even if they seem friendly at times.
  2. It's important to recognize these behaviors and understand that they require a different way to handle them than usual.
  3. There are strategies available to protect yourself from these difficult individuals, and seeking advice can be helpful.

Thank you, subscribers!

119 implied HN points • 09 Dec 22
🎙 Podcasts Media Subscriptions Community Content Accessibility
  1. Thank you to all the new subscribers for joining us. Your support is really appreciated!
  2. As a subscriber, you get access to a special Discord chat just for supporters. It's a great way to connect with others!
  3. You can try out a free 7-day trial to access even more content. It's a great way to see what we offer!

The Super

99 implied HN points • 08 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Social Issues Public Policy Identity politics Media
  1. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is being criticized as a form of brainwashing in American public schools.
  2. Some school officials are very focused on supporting trans and non-binary youth, even to the point of removing political materials from public areas.
  3. There are discussions around unusual topics, like a nuclear waste official who has been in trouble for stealing luggage.

Right out on the street!

119 implied HN points • 08 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Society Behavior Trends Identity Public Health
  1. Mocking others in public, especially about their choices, may not be well-received and can create tension. It's important to be mindful of how our actions affect others.
  2. Different people have different comfort levels with public health measures like mask-wearing. Respecting those choices promotes a more understanding community.
  3. Engaging in discussions about sensitive topics should be approached with care, as public interactions can be more intense and lead to misunderstandings.

Coming soon

139 implied HN points • 29 May 22
🎙 Podcasts Media Communication Culture Entertainment Psychology
  1. There's a new newsletter focused on abnormal psychology. It's about how unusual behaviors are becoming normal.
  2. The writer encourages people to subscribe for updates and insights. This could be a great way to learn more about psychology.
  3. The newsletter might share interesting discussions or topics related to mental health. It's a chance to explore what makes us tick.

Margaret and Carrie White Go To A Restaurant

119 implied HN points • 19 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Comedy Food Entertainment
  1. The restaurant scene highlights the clash between Margaret's strict beliefs and Carrie's desire for a normal experience. Margaret's reactions show her discomfort with anything that she sees as sinful.
  2. The interactions with the waitress illustrate the awkwardness of the situation. Margaret's intense comments make the waitress confused and uncomfortable.
  3. Carrie's frustration with her mother's extreme views is clear when she just wants dessert. This shows how challenging their relationship is and how different their perspectives are.

Disaffected watch party today

59 implied HN points • 19 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Film Television Art Entertainment Media
  1. There will be a watch party today at 3 pm Eastern. It's a chance for subscribers to join and enjoy a show together.
  2. The show being featured is the mini-series 'Feud: Bette and Joan'. It's about two famous actresses clashing during the decline of old Hollywood.
  3. The link to join the watch party is available below the paywall for subscribers only.

Fridge Thief

99 implied HN points • 02 Sep 22
😂 Humor Anecdotes Satire Narrative
  1. Sometimes, things aren't what they seem. What you think is a treat may be something else entirely.
  2. It's easy to make a mistake if you're not paying attention, especially when you're tired.
  3. Living with housemates can lead to funny misunderstandings about food in the fridge.

New Discord Link

79 implied HN points • 20 Nov 22
🎙 Podcasts Media Community Entertainment Technology Communication
  1. There's a new link to join the Discord chat server for the community. It's a good idea to use it now since links expire in a week.
  2. The Discord link is available below the paywall only for paid subscribers.
  3. You can subscribe for a 7-day free trial to read more content and keep up with the community.

Stop it

99 implied HN points • 12 Aug 22
🎙 Podcasts Media Entertainment Culture Discussion Opinion
  1. It's important to recognize when something needs to stop, whether it's behavior or external pressure. Knowing when to draw the line can lead to healthier choices.
  2. Listening to your feelings and addressing them is crucial for personal well-being. Ignoring issues often makes them worse.
  3. Engaging in open discussions about difficult topics can help break barriers. Talking can lead to better understanding and solutions.