Let’s Talk about the Deep Stuff

Episode 50: You’re Not Too Late: Fuck the Timeline, Live Your Truth

In this episode, I push back against the pressure to follow someone else’s idea of success — the grind, the curated image, the bullshit timelines. We talk about what it means to feel like you’re behind, how depression can make you feel numb and disconnected, and why you’re not broken for struggling. Whether it’s dealing with mental health, rejecting elitist values, or just trying to survive in a world that rewards performance over honesty — this is a reminder that your life doesn’t have to look like theirs. You’re not too late. You’re not failing. And you’re not selfish for feeling deeply. You’re human.
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 49: When We Stop Seeing People as People: On Authoritarianism and Dehumanization

In this episode of Let’s Talk About the Deep Stuff, Sean Kneese shares his thoughts on the growing normalization of hate, dehumanizing rhetoric, and the erosion of basic civil liberties. He talks about the danger of propaganda, the abuse of power by public figures, and why these issues go beyond politics and into basic human decency.
Sources:
I didn't go much into Stephen Miller in this episode but he's important to look into to understand the racist roots of Trump's immigration policy and what's really gong on here, Here's a link to info on him: https://uproxx.com/culture/stephen-miller-high-school-hostile-minorities/
Another U.S. citizen detained by ICE for 3 days not mentioned in episode- no phone call allowed, no charges:
https://ktla.com/news/local-news/disabled-veteran-detained-immigration-raid-speaks-out/
Stories mentioned in podcast:
 
https://ktla.com/news/local-news/u-s-citizen-detained-by-ice-agents-in-downtown-los-angeles-speaks-out/amp/?fbclid=IwY2xjawLgR9tleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHsxrXKzKAzRyqWtL1XlEzbbGrOuAQP5O1CYOicPRrrITfYS6ixY6l5mkctek_aem_dVCboNCqoByyeMBK6K7hvA
https://migrantinsider.com/p/ice-has-deported-at-least-70-us-citizens?fbclid=IwY2xjawLgR_xleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHqcDq9s1D2uVJtzwQyHfcFOFKAzz08KkVPDx45DqQtGWd_ZfkPVvO0Y5HJeh_aem_Ab37ZKd7oR-6qrj3oJjb9Q
https://belatina.com/lulac-warns-sexual-predators-targeting-immigrant-women-impersonating-ice-agents/?amp&fbclid=IwY2xjawLgewlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHnuKgs1jqq4eLVSSrWx99wKlN8XWAWuUQbrntaL_nlf2Wi0-prp-W_nHbPV__aem_V0JKj2rQGDns2EOS7zgBDQ
https://www.ntd.com/dhs-us-citizen-detained-for-obstructing-arrest-of-illegal-immigrant_1069448.html
 
https://www.latintimes.com/trump-ally-slammed-saying-alligators-everglades-detention-center-are-guaranteed-least-65-586091
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5396985-trump-homan-immigration-detainments/
https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2025/07/12/donald-trump-threatens-revoke-rosie-odonnell-citizenship/84803705007/
https://www.ncai.org/news/ncai-condemns-ann-coulter-s-we-didn-t-kill-enough-indians-violent-and-shameful-hate-speech-targeting-tribal-nations
https://www.poynter.org/fact-checking/2022/a-surprising-number-of-americans-believe-these-6-false-claims-about-immigrants-here-are-the-facts/
 
https://www.visaverge.com/healthcare/giant-bugs-intense-heat-and-hospital-struggles-at-alligator-alcatraz/
https://www.visaverge.com/healthcare/giant-bugs-intense-heat-and-hospital-struggles-at-alligator-alcatraz/
https://www.npr.org/2025/04/16/nx-s1-5366178/trump-deport-jail-u-s-citizens-homegrowns-el-salvador
https://news.bloomberglaw.com/us-law-week/trump-discriminating-against-blue-states-sets-up-historic-crisis
https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-enemies-from-within-5c4a34776469a55e71d3ba4d4e68cf62
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/trump-s-fcc-chair-goes-after-pbs-and-npr-with-twin-probes/ar-AA1y9oKI
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/trump-s-fcc-chair-goes-after-pbs-and-npr-with-twin-probes/ar-AA1y9oKI
https://www.reuters.com/world/us/mamdanis-nyc-primary-win-sparks-surge-anti-muslim-posts-advocates-say-2025-06-27/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/we-are-nyc-rabbis-who-support-zohran-mamdani-heres-why/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.commondreams.org/opinion/brad-lander-zohran-mamdani?utm_source=chatgpt.com
It turns out Thomas Jefferson NEVER said dissent is the highest form of patriotism. That quote has been misattributed to him and never verified so my mistake on that, but my opinion on that still stands. While Jefferson didn’t literally say ‘Dissent is the highest form of patriotism,’ the sentiment still holds—and his writings absolutely support the right and duty to challenge unjust power.. :  
https://www.monticello.org/research-education/thomas-jefferson-encyclopedia/dissent-highest-form-patriotism-spurious-quotation/
https://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/fifth_amendment
https://quoteinvestigator.com/2015/06/01/defend-say/
The Voltaire quote i mentioned is actually from Evelyn Beatrice Hall, so my mistake on that too. But once again, still something I strongly believe in.
https://www.vox.com/politics/419040/zohran-mamdani-racism-islamophobia-nyc-mayoral-race?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/minnesota-state-lawmakers-shot-search-underway-suspect-local-media-reports-say-2025-06-14/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2022_Buffalo_shooting?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2025-06-15/political-violence-is-threaded-through-recent-us-history-the-motives-and-justifications-vary?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jun/22/political-violence-extremism-america?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250616-trump-orders-deportation-drive-targeting-democratic-cities?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://ag.ny.gov/sites/default/files/buffaloshooting-onlineplatformsreport.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://icct.nl/publication/buffalo-attack-analysis-manifesto?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://icct.nl/publication/buffalo-attack-analysis-manifesto?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.history.com/news/kkk-birth-of-a-nation-film
https://www.ferris.edu/jimcrow
https://encyclopedia.densho.org
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/israel-s-attacks-destroy-79-of-gaza-mosques-3-churches/3469056
https://www.timesofisrael.com/smotrich-says-gaza-to-be-totally-destroyed-population-concentrated-in-small-area/
https://www.timesofisrael.com/israel-seeks-to-calm-waters-with-jordan-after-racist-extremist-speech-by-smotrich/
https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2023/10/dont-blame-gazans-for-hamas.html
 
 
My interview with activist Sam Stein: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5XCyQ0ztWkYsEymW1SpsVJ?si=18ND6ycyQTqik6or8SltnA&context=spotify%3Ashow%3A6aLODNXJ2EOD4iu8bxxVzL
My interview with Palestinian actress and playwright Najla Said: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2I04wqtAxkwWHoLI1WGnkU?si=ZEe9_Ie8QR-smfXioQ8OLw

Episode 48: When Art Gets Real: Social Commentary, Politics, and the Times Behind the Story with Sci-Fi writer/director Patrick Devaney

In this episode of Let's Talk About the Deep Stuff, host Sean Kneese sits down with sci-fi writer and director Patrick Devaney to explore how art — especially in genres like science fiction and horror — goes far beyond entertainment. From The Twilight Zone to Star Trek to Star Wars, they discuss how storytelling can reflect society, challenge power structures, and make bold political statements.
 
Patrick Devaney's website: https://www.pdevaney.com/
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 47: Synchronicity or Just Coincidence? Knowing the Difference

Is it all just random, or is there something deeper at work? In this off-the-cuff solo episode, Sean explores the line between coincidence and synchronicity—those moments that feel too meaningful to ignore. He shares personal stories, unpacks the spiritual vs. logical debate, and dives into perspectives from Taoism, world religions, and Carl Jung. It’s a raw look at the search for meaning, the role of mental health, and how to tell if the universe is really trying to say something—or if your mind is just making connections.
 
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 46:Vulnerability or Oversharing? Let’s Talk About It -with writer/poet Bree Bailey

In this episode of Let’s Talk About the Deep Stuff, I’m joined by the brilliant and fearless Bree Bailey — award-winning poet and master of turning pain into poetry. We get real about what it means to be vulnerable in your art and your life. Where’s the line between being honest and being too exposed? How much of ourselves do we really need to share to connect with others — and when does it become too much?
We talk about personal moments we’ve both put out into the world, the reactions we’ve gotten, and the times it felt empowering… or just plain uncomfortable. This is a conversation about truth, boundaries, creative freedom, and learning to be seen — without losing yourself in the process.
If you’ve ever struggled with how much of your story to share, this one’s for you.
 
Bree's website: https://www.breebaileypoetry.com/
Bree's IG: https://www.instagram.com/breebaileypoetry/
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 45: Selfishness vs Selflessness: How Much ‘Me’ Is Too Much?”

This episode of Let's Talk about The Deep Stuff explores the fine line between self-awareness and selfishness. It’s about learning to tune out the noise of others’ opinions while still staying grounded, recognizing your flaws, and showing up for the people who matter. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about finding that balance. The episode also emphasizes how many people today take selfishness too far, pushing themselves away from real connection and responsibility.
sources: 
https://online.ucpress.edu/collabra/article/5/1/29/113028/When-Your-Boo-Becomes-a-Ghost-The-Association?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-ghosting-5071864
https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/covid-lockdown-cost-of-living-crisis-b2169718.html
https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-27810059.amp
https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/elon-musk-empathy-quote/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/5-types-people-who-can-ruin-your-life/201903/malignant-narcissism-does-the-president-really
https://www.tiktok.com/@doratheexplorhoe/video/7493666198240922911?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7350087295661803050
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 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