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

Talking with Benjamin Boyce

659 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24
🎙 Podcasts Interviews Media Culture Entertainment Discussion
  1. The conversation features Benjamin Boyce, and it seems to focus on topics that are likely of interest to a wide audience.
  2. There's a promise of upcoming content on YouTube, suggesting that the discussion will reach even more viewers.
  3. Supporting independent creators like the one mentioned can help keep unique voices in the conversation alive.

It's not about "you"

2537 implied HN points • 04 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Social Dynamics
  1. People can hear criticisms of their demographic group without taking it personally. It’s possible to listen and reflect instead of reacting with anger.
  2. Many individuals choose to take offense instead of understanding general observations about their group. This reaction can stem from a desire to avoid accountability.
  3. Being able to separate personal feelings from group critiques is a sign of maturity. It's important to approach these conversations with an open mind rather than a defensive attitude.

Ex-Antifa member interviewed

739 implied HN points • 07 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Movements Social Issues Media Analysis Voting behavior Public Policy
  1. An ex-Antifa member discusses how family issues influenced his involvement in extremist groups. Understanding personal backgrounds can shed light on why people might join such movements.
  2. Society is becoming more accepting of unhealthy relationships, as shown by a video where a woman abuses her boyfriend. There seems to be a double standard when it comes to how we react based on gender.
  3. Euthanasia is expanding to include people who are not terminally ill. This raises important questions about who can decide when life ends and under what circumstances.

Facing the truth, and what comes after

1159 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Film Women Psychology Celebrity Identity
  1. Sometimes, we realize things about people we never noticed before. This can lead to uncomfortable truths about our relationships.
  2. People often look up to celebrities who remind them of their own life struggles, using them as symbols of their hopes or fears.
  3. Movies like _Mildred Pierce_ explore complex family dynamics and the pain of becoming like someone we fear or dislike.
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Personal update, and it's all happy

2957 implied HN points • 22 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Personal Stories Societal Issues Community support Housing Market
  1. The author faced many challenges, including losing a long-term job and dealing with the aftermath of a flood without insurance. It was a tough time for them.
  2. Things are looking up now, as they sold their house for a good price and found a new living situation that will lower their expenses.
  3. The author is grateful for the support they've received and feels connected to readers who share similar perspectives, making their journey a bit easier.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and thank YOU

1678 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23
🎙 Podcasts Media Entertainment Communication Culture Community
  1. The author is grateful for the support from readers and subscribers, which helps keep the show going. It's clear that your contributions make a big difference.
  2. There's a strong sense of community among the listeners and supporters, where many feel comfortable discussing the challenges of modern society. It’s nice to have a space to share and be understood.
  3. The author wants everyone to focus on love and connection during the holiday season, no matter the challenges we face. Those relationships are what truly matter in tough times.

Episode 172

459 implied HN points • 20 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Elections Public Discourse Social Issues
  1. There was a heated conflict in the House involving Jasmine Crockett, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Marjorie Taylor Greene, which was discussed in a lively manner. It's like a sports commentary on a political debate.
  2. A young Black Marine was arrested for planning a violent attack, while three white teens successfully sued their school for being expelled over wearing an acne mask, which the school wrongly labeled as 'blackface.'
  3. The episode also highlighted some bizarre news stories, including strange political antics and unusual celebrity features, pointing to the odd happenings in the current world.

"You're both wrong"

1678 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Online behavior Morality Bullying Communication
  1. Kindergarten teacher morality is about not recognizing who the real aggressor is in a conflict. It's like saying both kids in a fight are wrong, even if one started it.
  2. Some people, like Mr. Calm and Collected, don't see the whole picture and often side with the aggressor. They might think they’re being fair, but they actually dismiss the real issues.
  3. This type of perspective can let bullying continue unchecked online. It shows a lack of good judgment and can make the situation worse for the person being targeted.

Happy Thanksgiving!

1918 implied HN points • 23 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Thanksgiving Traditions Community Gratitude Food
  1. It's important to feel gratitude during tough times. Even when facing challenges like losing a job or dealing with personal struggles, appreciating support from others can be uplifting.
  2. Thanksgiving is a time to gather with friends and loved ones. Sharing meals and traditions can create joyful moments, even amid hardship.
  3. Animal companions also enjoy special treats during the holidays. Remembering to include pets in our celebrations can bring a bit of extra happiness to the day.

SAVE THE DATE-you're invited

479 implied HN points • 08 May 24
🎙 Podcasts Audio Shows Live Events Interviews Community
  1. Join a live show recording on May 9 at 7 pm US Eastern time in Discord for subscribers. It will be a discussion with writer Joseph Sciambra.
  2. The show will explore controversial questions about the relationship between child abuse and homosexuality, including causes and correlations.
  3. Paid subscribers can interact during the event and their questions will be included in the episode when it's released.

Tuskegee for everyone

2358 implied HN points • 19 Sep 23
🏥 Health Politics Medical Ethics Public Health Vaccination Debate Chronic Illness Healthcare system
  1. Many people are starting to distrust the medical system, especially after the experiences during Covid and how vaccines were handled. It's important to question the advice given and think critically about health decisions.
  2. Listening to your intuition about your health can be crucial. Signs of something wrong shouldn't be ignored, and recognizing these early can save lives.
  3. Chronic health advice, like dietary recommendations, can often be wrong or outdated. People should be open to new information and trust their own experiences over established guidelines.

Disaffected Homestyle

779 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Culture Society Politics Entertainment
  1. The hosts discuss new terms for people crossing borders, showing how language evolves in society.
  2. They explore the topic of civil unions for the LGBTQ+ community and whether it was a better choice than marriage.
  3. The conversation also touches on traditional parenting and nostalgic items like old kitchen wall telephones.

Anti-white bigotry is real and a clear and present danger

1838 implied HN points • 06 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Race Issues Social justice Identity politics Political Discourse Civil Rights
  1. Anti-white bigotry exists and needs to be recognized. It's important to acknowledge that not everyone experiences the same treatment based on their race.
  2. Many white people feel a sense of fear or shame about discussing their experiences. This reluctance could lead to negative consequences if not addressed.
  3. There's a call to action for white individuals to express their concerns and experiences more openly. It’s vital for everyone to feel safe and heard, regardless of their background.

All things go to eleven

2318 implied HN points • 02 Sep 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Environmental Issues Pollution Waste Management Sustainability
  1. We often can't talk about problems without turning them into a battle between good and evil. This makes it hard to have simple conversations about real issues.
  2. Many environmental discussions are charged with strong emotions, causing people to avoid or misinterpret the topic. We need to separate our concerns from political identities.
  3. Practical issues like plastic waste and poor urban planning are important but rarely talked about because they get caught up in political arguments. We should discuss these without taking sides.

On clarity and mind-reading

2038 implied HN points • 30 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Communication Mental health Childhood Trauma Relationships Social norms
  1. Many people, including myself, really struggle with ambiguity in conversations. It's important to be clear about what we mean so everyone understands.
  2. I insist on defining terms when talking because my past has taught me how harmful unclear expectations can be. If we can't agree on definitions, I won't engage in that conversation.
  3. Today’s world feels more confusing and less trustworthy than ever. It’s not just personal; many others feel the same way about the lack of clarity around communication and social rules.

Disaffected, Episode 164, March 23, 2024

679 implied HN points • 25 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Ideology Education Health Media Law
  1. Woke ideas are spreading in schools and other institutions, influencing future doctors and professionals. This is concerning because these ideas can be harmful.
  2. In Washington state, aspiring lawyers won't have to take the bar exam anymore, which raises questions about equity in the legal profession.
  3. The Mayo Clinic is reportedly prioritizing hiring convicts and refugees for certain medical positions, showing a shift in hiring practices.

Where was your father?

1578 implied HN points • 25 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Identity Family Mental health Trauma Narrative
  1. The author grew up in an abusive home, primarily influenced by the relationship between their mother and stepfather.
  2. The author's father left before they were born, and while they initially saw him as a villain, they later discovered complexities about their family dynamics.
  3. Even with conflicting feelings about their father, the author acknowledges the impact of their mother's behavior on that relationship.

Culture Crush

399 implied HN points • 11 May 24
🎭️ Culture Media Society Identity Politics Trends
  1. The event includes discussions around controversial topics related to culture and discrimination. It's important to stay informed about diverse perspectives in society.
  2. There are specific criticisms aimed at certain groups and their actions, showcasing a sense of dissatisfaction with current social issues. Engaging with varying viewpoints can help understand these critiques.
  3. The content is presented in a podcast format, which can be an engaging way to absorb complex issues. Listening to podcasts can provide insights and spark important conversations.

We are living in a Cluster B world

2058 implied HN points • 13 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Society Media Psychology Communication Entertainment
  1. We are currently experiencing a cultural environment influenced by Cluster B personality disorders, such as narcissism and antisocial behavior. This means many people may behave in ways that seem self-centered or disregard others' feelings.
  2. Our society might be facing challenges due to increased attention to these toxic behaviors. This has implications for our relationships and social dynamics.
  3. Understanding the characteristics of Cluster B personalities can help us navigate interactions with those who exhibit these traits. It’s important to recognize these behaviors to maintain our own mental health.

Aww yeah. . .Disaffected Episode 165

599 implied HN points • 30 Mar 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Criticism Social Issues Cultural Commentary Current Events Humor
  1. The term 'conspiracy theory' is often used today to silence dissenting opinions and fears about safety in the world. It's a way for people to dismiss uncomfortable ideas.
  2. The tragic story of Dagny 'Nex' Benedict highlights the impact of family trauma and abuse on mental health, rather than solely blaming external factors like societal policies.
  3. Current events include controversies over gender policies in places like gyms, a teacher being fired for a rap video, and student concerns about health issues, showcasing various societal tensions.

Disaffected, Episode 162

699 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Media Activism Elections
  1. The WPATH Files reveal that the World Transgender Health Association is aware of the possible harm done to children but continues with their practices.
  2. Mainstream media often fails to accurately report on controversial topics, like the Moms4Liberty group's efforts to remove certain books from school libraries.
  3. President Biden's recent speech included tense remarks aimed at the Supreme Court and addressed serious issues, like a murder case involving an illegal alien.

Disaffected: Episode 159

819 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Culture Society Politics Discussion
  1. Shadow projection happens when people ignore their own flaws and blame others for them. This can be seen in various social issues where individuals deny their own problems.
  2. The show highlights ways society is changing, like how some commercials claim to promote Christian values while pushing different ideological messages. This shows a disconnect in what is being communicated versus the actual values being represented.
  3. There are concerning trends, like towns monitoring employees' personal social media and schools making decisions about kids' identities without informing parents. This raises questions about privacy and parental rights.

This is not the essay I wanted to present to you

1918 implied HN points • 16 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Communication Media Literature Social Issues Online behavior
  1. Writers today often struggle with readers who misunderstand or misrepresent their ideas. This makes it hard to have honest conversations.
  2. Many readers act like online debates are a competition instead of a discussion. This creates a barrier to meaningful exchanges.
  3. Writers feel frustrated by the pressure to engage with all readers, especially when some just want to argue rather than understand.

Do you know how controlled you are?

2597 implied HN points • 06 Jul 23
🕹 Technology Design User Experience Consumer Technology Sustainability Government Policy
  1. Machines today are often designed to make tasks more complicated for users instead of being user-friendly. This can lead to frustration and inefficiency.
  2. Some appliances have features that seem eco-friendly but actually complicate how they work, making users jump through hoops to get what they want.
  3. Government regulations and societal trends can shape product designs, leading to less functionality and more constraints on how we use everyday tools.

Old tech break

1518 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🕹 Technology Consumer Electronics Telecommunications
  1. Restoring old technology can be a rewarding hobby. Working on a vintage phone shows how much care went into making things in the past.
  2. Older devices were built to last and be repaired easily. They were made with solid materials and could be fixed rather than thrown away.
  3. Modern gadgets often do a lot more but can be confusing and hard to repair. There’s a charm in the simplicity and sound of older technology.

Feminists: tell me what you believe?

1278 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Feminism Gender Studies Identity politics Social movements Cultural critique
  1. Feminism means different things to different people. It's important for individuals to share their personal definitions and beliefs about feminism.
  2. Supporting equal rights for women doesn't necessarily mean someone identifies as a feminist. Some believe those rights can be supported without using the term 'feminism.'
  3. There's a chance that arguments over feminism arise from misunderstandings of the term. People might think they disagree when their definitions are just different.

New Year housekeeping and mental bric-a-brac

1019 implied HN points • 02 Jan 24
📖 Philosophy Mental health Trauma Personal Growth Self-reflection Communication
  1. Communication is key when you're having issues. If you don't tell someone exactly what the problem is, they might not be able to help you.
  2. Things can go wrong with automated systems, like emails ending up in spam folders. Always check there if you’re not getting messages.
  3. Personal growth can happen when you re-evaluate your past and beliefs. Sometimes, realizing things weren't what you thought can lead to big changes in how you see the world.

I've always relied on the kindness of strangers

1418 implied HN points • 29 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Mental health Emotional Support Childhood Trauma Therapy Social relationships
  1. Many people who experienced emotional abuse as children crave for their feelings to be understood and validated by others. They want someone to 'get' their pain, even if just for a moment.
  2. It's hard for others to truly feel what we feel, and we shouldn't rely on that to explain our experiences. Understanding can happen without sharing the exact emotions.
  3. Adults who were hurt as kids often seek comfort from others, since they didn't receive the emotional support they needed as children. It’s important to find a way to cope with that disappointment on our own.

Sons of Borderline mothers

1258 implied HN points • 17 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Mental health Family Dynamics Gender Issues Personal Growth
  1. Many men who grew up with borderline mothers experience emotional struggles and trauma. Their pain is often misunderstood because society doesn't talk about these issues much.
  2. Growing up in a chaotic or unsafe environment can lead to deep-seated feelings of inadequacy and anger in adulthood. Men may feel stuck or frustrated when they see others succeed in family life.
  3. It's common for men from these backgrounds to feel alone and not understood. Sharing these experiences can help break the silence and offer support to those who relate.

Disaffected: Episode 160, Feb 24, 2024

639 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Analysis Cultural critique Personal Stories
  1. The media is blaming Libs of TikTok for a tragic event involving a non-binary girl, showing how exploitation occurs in society. It's important to see how such narratives can harm communities.
  2. The episode includes a fun segment revisiting humorous stereotypes about liberal white women and features a look at Eric Adams' approach to kids and safety. This mix of humor and politics makes for an entertaining listen.
  3. There's a noticeable trend in TV shows where characters often depict women as strong figures while men are shown as foolish. The discussion seeks to explain why this character dynamic is so common in media today.

To spoil the child

1238 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Society Generational Values Education Parenting
  1. Many young people today think they know more than older generations, but this may not be the case. They have been praised for low-quality work and may not realize their knowledge is limited.
  2. There is a belief that young people have better morals and understand society better than adults. This belief can lead to dismissing valuable experience from older generations.
  3. This shift in values, where youth is elevated over age, could pose significant challenges for society. It's important to recognize and address these issues rather than see them as progress.

It's not getting better

1678 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health Government Policy Social Issues Civil Rights Psychology
  1. Many people still believe that Covid itself caused the problems we faced during the pandemic, ignoring the role of government actions and societal reactions.
  2. This strong belief in the pandemic has become normal, creating a disconnect from reality for many who hold these views.
  3. The feeling of distrust towards normal people around us persists, as the delusion surrounding Covid has not improved over the years.

The decline continues

1998 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Public Policy Community Engagement Political culture
  1. People are feeling more demoralized and hopeless in their daily lives. This feeling is like a constant annoying noise that they can't ignore, affecting their mood.
  2. Everyday behavior and rules of civility are declining. There seems to be a lack of respect and common courtesy in public spaces, making it a more dangerous and frustrating environment.
  3. Many people don't seem to agree on following basic rules anymore. This breakdown of etiquette is leading to confusion and chaos in social interactions, like drivers not knowing how to handle intersections.

Spread your tiny wings and fly away

1099 implied HN points • 02 Dec 23
🎶 Music Performance Artistry History Genres
  1. The female contralto voice is very special and beautiful, but it's quite rare. Many famous singers, like Karen Carpenter, have this unique vocal range.
  2. As artists grow older and revisit their earlier songs, they often bring new depth and emotion to their performances.
  3. Anne Murray's recent performance shows how time can enhance a song, making it more meaningful than when it was first released.

For the resisters

2098 implied HN points • 08 Jul 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Civil Rights Government Public Health Social Issues Media
  1. Resisters are a minority who often don't get recognition or support from society, but their actions matter. It's important to document what they did and how they stood against mainstream pressure.
  2. There has been a cultural shift where some people are starting to realize the wrongness of past actions, but many won't apologize or acknowledge their mistakes. This creates an uneasy silence about the issues faced by resisters.
  3. It's vital for resisters to share their stories and actions, no matter how small, as they can inspire future generations. Even the smallest act of resistance can be significant for someone else.

Bring your questions for a former Antifa member

419 implied HN points • 10 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Movements Extremism Activism Social Issues Political Identity
  1. There will be a live event with Ty King, a former Antifa member, where he will share his experiences. People can ask questions and engage with him during the session.
  2. Ty King's background includes a tough childhood, which he believes made him more open to extremist movements. His story highlights how personal struggles can lead to political affiliations.
  3. The event is exclusively for paid subscribers and will take place on April 11, allowing fans to connect with the topics discussed in a supportive environment.

"People smile and tell me I'm the lucky one"

1518 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Art Music Society Nostalgia Identity
  1. People feel nostalgic for the past and believe we've lost important values like family and community. The modern world seems to ignore what came before.
  2. There's a sense that music today lacks the beauty and melody of earlier times. Many songs now are more about rhythm and spoken word than actual singing.
  3. Reflecting on the past can help us remember loved ones and their struggles. There’s hope in seeing how family can learn from past mistakes and create better futures.

Child abuse and extremist politics

379 implied HN points • 17 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Extremism Child abuse Social Issues Mental health Activism
  1. There is a connection between having a difficult childhood and joining extremist groups. Many people in these groups have faced trauma early in life.
  2. The discussion includes personal stories from former members of groups like Antifa. Understanding their backgrounds can help us see why they joined these movements.
  3. Exploring these connections can lead to better support for those affected by childhood trauma. It's important to address these issues to prevent them from escalating.