Decoding the Gurus
Christopher Kavanagh and Matthew BrowneAn exiled Northern Irish anthropologist and a hitchhiking Australian psychologist take a close look at the contemporary crop of 'secular gurus', iconoclasts, and other exiles from the mainstream, offering their own brands of unique takes and special insights. Leveraging two of the most diverse accents in modern podcasting, Chris and Matt dig deep into the claims, peek behind the psychological curt... more
| Publishes | Twice weekly | Episodes | 234 | Founded | 5 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Social SciencesSociety & CultureScience | |||
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Latest Episodes
We return to some old friends, and almost immediately, we regret the decision. Also, get ready for some heady insights from history, a new conspiracy hypothesis, and Game Theory based insights.
The full episode is available to Patreon subscribers (1... more
Ever heard of cognitive dissonance? That thing a psychology lecturer might have explained to you once upon a time, likely using the same UFO cult example everyone else uses. Well, a new paper by Thomas Kelly suggests that the UFO cult example might h... more
Cult Season rumbles on as Chris and Matt expand their minds in an attempt to absorb the cosmic insights of spiritual influencer and alleged cult leader Teal Swan (born Mary Teal Bosworth, 1984). Our intrepid hosts explore her recent appearance on the... more
In this Decoding Academia episode, we take a look at a 2025 paper by Daria Ovsyannikova, Victoria Olden, and Mickey Inzlicht, asking a question that might make some people uncomfortable/angry, specifically, are AI-generated responses perceived as mor... more
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- Please invest in audio quality
Your audio is distorted and peaking. Please review your microphones and digital audio workstation. Poor audio quality on a podcast in 2026 is readily fixable.
Apple Podcasts3Codypurdie
Australia8 days ago - Strong and necessary criticism of IDW etc.
I’ve really been enjoying their critiques of the IDW, sensemaking, etc. Sure, they’re physicalists but nobody’s perfect.
Apple Podcasts4lloyddoppler
United States2 months ago - Peak manosphere?
In the beginning, there was a man talking to other men on a podcast. Then, all of those men had podcasts, and they talked to other men on their podcasts. And now we have these men, who have a podcast talking about those men talking on their podcasts. This has all become very silly now. Let’s stop.
Apple Podcasts1C_D535
United Kingdom3 months ago - Two fine lads/blokes
The finest sense making on the internet, and maybe ever.
Apple Podcasts5DmilllsUnited States4 months ago - Brilliant episode on Lab Leak Fever…
…I’m off to buy a copy of what sounds like a gripping read. I think lay people will always be frustrated that science takes time to prove its conclusions, while on the other hand…their own feelings are instantaneous and unfettered by caution. Sometimes, to get the full picture takes time and patience. Thank you to Phillipp for waiting and giving us the patient, investigation based answers.
Apple Podcasts5funnibomUnited Kingdom4 months ago
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Apple Podcasts | #164 |  Ukraine/Society & Culture |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Decoding the Gurus
What is Decoding the Gurus about and what kind of topics does it cover?
The show presents a critical exploration of modern thought leaders and self-proclaimed gurus, dissecting their beliefs and claims with wit and humor. It often features discussions on prominent figures like Jordan Peterson and controversial concepts surrounding topics such as psychology, sociology, and popular culture. The dynamic between the hosts, a Northern Irish anthropologist and an Australian psychologist, adds a distinctive flair to the discourse, drawing listeners in with both intellectual rigor and lighthearted banter. Unique to this show is its blend of serious critique with irreverent commentary, allowing for a thoughtful examination of contemporary intellectual trends while engaging in playful debate about the ideologies being pr... more
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Which podcasts are similar to Decoding the Gurus?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Decoding the Gurus:
1. Very Bad Wizards
2. Conspirituality
3. Blocked and Reported
4. Uncomfortable Conversations with Josh Szeps
5. QAA Podcast
How many episodes of Decoding the Gurus are there?
Decoding the Gurus launched 5 years ago and published 234 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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What guests have appeared on Decoding the Gurus?
Recent guests on Decoding the Gurus include:
1. Sam Gregson
2. Julia Rohrer
3. Alexander Biener
4. Al Murray
5. Dr. Philipp Markolin
6. James Bloodworth
7. Eric Weinstein
8. Chaz Firestone
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.