Let’s Talk about the Deep Stuff

Episode 44: When Good Ideas Go Bad: The Dark Side of Power and Belief”

In this episode, host Sean Kneese and guest Eric Sanchez dive into how powerful ideologies and movements, often rooted in noble ideals, can be manipulated for violent and authoritarian purposes. From the use of religion to justify brutal actions to the rise of nationalist movements that erase opposition, we explore how good ideas are twisted by those in power. We reflect on historical moments where pluralism was replaced by rigid dogma, and how belief systems, once focused on unity and peace, were used to control and oppress. This episode challenges us to think critically about the darker side of human history and the dangers of unchecked authority.
Relevant links: 
https://www.historyhit.com/alexandria-the-city-that-changed-the-world/
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/24/world/middleeast/sufi-muslim-explainer.html
https://www.latimes.com/politics/story/2025-01-26/trump-free-speech-executive-order-critics-respond
 
The intro music is "Daybreaker" by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio
Check out more of his music here: https://karlcasey.bandcamp.com/
Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oGlqi5TaK8r8K50fQhUbe?si=drdN0wQNQ7aVXEm3Nx3xhA
IG for Podcast: @letstalkaboutthedeepstuff
Donate to the show:
Venmo: @Sean-kneese
Paypal: Skneese1989@gmail.com
Zelle: Skneese1989@gmail.com 

Episode 43: Letting Go of People-Pleasing and Putting Yourself First

Breaking free from people-pleasing isn’t easy, but it’s necessary. In this episode, I share my personal experiences and draw from Dr. Gabor Maté’s The Myth of Normal and The Courage to Be Disliked by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro Kishimi to explore why we fall into this pattern, how it holds us back, and what it takes to finally put yourself first.
Relevant links: 
https://psychcentral.com/health/the-need-to-please-the-psychology-of-people-pleasing#causes
https://drgabormate.com/book/the-myth-of-normal/
https://www.audible.com/en_US/pd/The-Courage-to-Be-Disliked-Audiobook/B07BRPQ8LW?ipRedirectOverride=true&overrideBaseCountry=true&bp_o=true&language=en_US&source_code=MSNPP30DTRIAL55002202490V4&&msclkid=a9624680af27154022ba213f8ca74ec3&gclid=a9624680af27154022ba213f8ca74ec3&gclsrc=3p.ds
The intro music is "Daybreaker" by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio
Check out more of his music here: https://karlcasey.bandcamp.com/
Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oGlqi5TaK8r8K50fQhUbe?si=drdN0wQNQ7aVXEm3Nx3xhA
IG for Podcast: @letstalkaboutthedeepstuff
Donate to the show:
Venmo: @Sean-kneese
Paypal: Skneese1989@gmail.com
Zelle: Skneese1989@gmail.com 

Episode 42: The Universal Language of Music - with musician and music enthusiast Ken Stevens

In this episode of Let's Talk About the Deep Stuff, host Sean Kneese sits down with musician and music enthusiast Ken Stevens. Ken shares his firsthand experiences witnessing the birth of hip hop, punk, and other influential genres. He dives into how music serves as a powerful reflection of social issues, capturing the essence of the times in which it was created.
The intro music is "Daybreaker" by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio
Check out more of his music here: https://karlcasey.bandcamp.com/
Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oGlqi5TaK8r8K50fQhUbe?si=drdN0wQNQ7aVXEm3Nx3xhA
IG for Podcast: @letstalkaboutthedeepstuff
Donate to the show:
Venmo: @Sean-kneese
Paypal: Skneese1989@gmail.com
Zelle: Skneese1989@gmail.com 

Episode 41: Mastering Thoughts vs. Letting Go: Can Mindfulness and Manifestation Coexist?

In this episode of Let’s Talk About the Deep Stuff, host Sean Kneese explores the intriguing intersection of mindfulness and manifestation. Drawing from Buddhism, Neville Goddard, and James Allen's As a Man Thinketh, Sean dives into the question: Can the practice of being present and unattached to your thoughts coexist with the idea of using your thoughts as a tool to shape your reality? To unpack this topic, Sean is joined by Jonathan Jung, a guest well-versed in spirituality and various religious philosophies. Together, they discuss how mastering your thoughts and living in the moment might harmonize, offering practical insights and deep reflections on navigating these powerful concepts.
The intro music is "Daybreaker" by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio Check out more of his music here: https://karlcasey.bandcamp.com/
Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oGlqi5TaK8r8K50fQhUbe?si=drdN0wQNQ7aVXEm3Nx3xhA
IG for Podcast: @letstalkaboutthedeepstuff
Donate to the show:
Venmo: @Sean-kneese Paypal: Skneese1989@gmail.com
Zelle: Skneese1989@gmail.com

Episode 40: Beyond Emptiness: Filling the Void Within

In this episode of Let's Talk About the Deep Stuff, host Sean Kneese is joined by Liam, known as @elevatedminds on Instagram, to delve into the deep sense of emptiness many of us experience and explore how to move beyond it. Together, they share insights and practical steps to help you reconnect with yourself, find meaning, and create a fulfilling life.
The intro music is "Daybreaker" by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio Check out more of his music here: https://karlcasey.bandcamp.com/
Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oGlqi5TaK8r8K50fQhUbe?si=drdN0wQNQ7aVXEm3Nx3xhA
IG for Podcast: @letstalkaboutthedeepstuff
Donate to the show:
Venmo: @Sean-kneese Paypal: Skneese1989@gmail.com
Zelle: Skneese1989@gmail.com 
 

Episode 39: FOMO is Bullshit: Overcoming the Fear of Missing Out

In this candid, off-the-cuff monologue, host Sean Kneese breaks down the fear of missing out (FOMO) and how it creeps into our lives through social media and societal pressures. Sean offers personal insights on overcoming FOMO and learning to find fulfillment in your own life, without the constant need to compare yourself to others.
 
Studies referenced: 
https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Ft23568-000
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S235285321830169X
 
The intro music is "Daybreaker" by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio Check out more of his music here: https://karlcasey.bandcamp.com/
Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oGlqi5TaK8r8K50fQhUbe?si=drdN0wQNQ7aVXEm3Nx3xhA
IG for Podcast: @letstalkaboutthedeepstuff
Donate to the show:
Venmo: @Sean-kneese Paypal: Skneese1989@gmail.com
Zelle: Skneese1989@gmail.com 
 

Episode 38: Journey Within: Lessons in Self-Discovery and Resilience Part II of II

In this second part of our conversation on Let’s Talk About the Deep Stuff, my childhood friend Anthony shares his reflections on our early days together and how those experiences shaped who we are today. He opens up about his journey to practicing Islam and how his faith has provided him with balance and purpose in life.
We continue our candid dialogue by discussing the influence of spirituality on mental health, alongside insights into current events and their relevance to his life. This episode is a blend of nostalgia, personal growth, and a deep dive into how faith—regardless of the specific belief system—can guide us through challenges and help us find meaning in our journeys.
The intro music is "Daybreaker" by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio Check out more of his music here: https://karlcasey.bandcamp.com/
Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oGlqi5TaK8r8K50fQhUbe?si=drdN0wQNQ7aVXEm3Nx3xhA
IG for Podcast: @letstalkaboutthedeepstuff
Donate to the show:
Venmo: @Sean-kneese Paypal: Skneese1989@gmail.com
Zelle: Skneese1989@gmail.com 
 

Episode 37: Journey Within: Lessons in Self-Discovery and Resilience Part I of II

In this episode of Let’s Talk About the Deep Stuff, host Sean Kneese talks with his childhood friend Anthony for a candid, off-the-cuff conversation about his journey from traveling across the country to establishing a rural lifestyle. We explore how this transition has impacted his perspective on life, personal growth, and mental health.
Our discussion also highlights the differences in mindset between urban and rural living, shedding light on how these environments shape our views. We touch on current events and how they resonate with his experiences, creating a rich tapestry of introspection, life lessons, and genuine storytelling.
This is part one of our two-part chat, where we delve into what it truly means to grow and find balance. Tune in for an authentic discussion that's both thought-provoking and relatable!
The intro music is "Daybreaker" by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio Check out more of his music here: https://karlcasey.bandcamp.com/
Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oGlqi5TaK8r8K50fQhUbe?si=drdN0wQNQ7aVXEm3Nx3xhA
IG for Podcast: @letstalkaboutthedeepstuff
Donate to the show:
Venmo: @Sean-kneese Paypal: Skneese1989@gmail.com
Zelle: Skneese1989@gmail.com 
 

Episode 36: Self Gratification and Narcissism in Modern Spirituality

In this episode of Let’s Talk About the Deep Stuff, we delve into the impact of commercialization on spirituality and religion. How are market forces reshaping these practices and potentially diluting their original meanings? We’re joined by Nico Moscoso, a magical practitioner and the creator behind the YouTube channel SonofSelene. With expertise in tarot reading, astrology, and mediumship, Nico provides valuable insights into how commercialization affects spiritual traditions and what it means for those seeking genuine connection.
Tune in for an engaging discussion on maintaining the authenticity and depth of spirituality in a commercialized world.
Nico's IG: https://www.instagram.com/sonofselene/
The intro music is "Daybreaker" by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio Check out more of his music here: https://karlcasey.bandcamp.com/
Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oGlqi5TaK8r8K50fQhUbe?si=drdN0wQNQ7aVXEm3Nx3xhA
IG for Podcast: @letstalkaboutthedeepstuff
Donate to the show:
Venmo: @Sean-kneese Paypal: Skneese1989@gmail.com
Zelle: Skneese1989@gmail.com 

Episode 35: A Nuanced Discussion on Cancel Culture and the Boundaries of Comedy

In this episode of Let's Talk about the Deep Stuff, host Sean Kneese is joined by stand-up comedian and sketch performer Obi O'Brien and improvisor and sketch performer Laszlo Medina. They explore whether there are limits to what comedy should tackle and how sensitive topics are handled. The discussion also delves into whether cancel culture is a significant force affecting comedy or if it's overstated. Tune in for a nuanced debate on balancing humor’s boundaries with respecting audience sensitivities.
 
Obi's IG: https://www.instagram.com/sayhiobi/
Laszlo's IG: https://www.instagram.com/laszlolmao/
The intro music is "Daybreaker" by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio" 
Check out more of his music here: https://karlcasey.bandcamp.com/
Or listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4oGlqi5TaK8r8K50fQhUbe?si=drdN0wQNQ7aVXEm3Nx3xhA
IG for Podcast: @letstalkaboutthedeepstuff
Donate to the show: 
Venmo: @Sean-kneese
Paypal: Skneese1989@gmail.com
Zelle: Skneese1989@gmail.com