Author: Podunk Polymath

A leftist that's sick of your liberal sh*t.

TPPP Episode 87 : Snap Reunion

Welcome to another episode of The Podunk Polymath Podcast! This week, I speak about my experiences at the American Atheists Convention 2019. Spoiler alert : It was pretty badass!

For the palaver, I facilitated a reunion between Amy, current host of The Ginger Snaps, and Nadya, former co-host of the selfsame show. We had some technical issues in the beginning, but we finally got Nadya in on the fun. We talked about the current state of the podcast, me Nadya explaining why she had to leave the show, and some general topics as well as camaraderie. I was so glad to be able to speak with both of them again. It warmed the cockles of my black heart!

Watch here.

The Ginger Snaps Podcast

The Ginger Snaps on Facebook

The Ginger Snaps on Twitter

TPPP Episode 86 : Life After God

Thanks once again for joining me on the show that your mother warned you about : The Podunk Polymath Podcast! This week, I speak to activist, podcast host, humanist chaplain, speaker, and National Organizing Manager for Secular Student Alliance Ryan Bell. As a minister Ryan decided to go a year without God, and became an atheist as result. He kept a blog about his experience, and he has spoken many times about his experience. He also has a podcast named Life After God, as well a website, both of which he uses to talk about and help those coming out of religion. He is also a social justice advocate who is not shy about speaking his mind about those issues he feels strongly about. We talked about his journey to atheism, his a activism, and his podcast. We then get into the reluctance of some in the atheist community to speak about social justice. Somehow we end up talking about politics and the shitshow that is the Trump Administration. I really enjoyed our conversation, and I think you will too.

Watch here.

Life After God

Ryan Bell’s Page

Secular Student Alliance

TPPP Episode 85 : Living with Mental Illness

Welcome to another episode of The Triple Po! This week I have on my friend Brigid Fitch from Holy CRAP The VlogCast. We kick things off by talking the upcoming American Atheists Convention in Cincinnati which we will both be attending.

We then get into the more serious discussion about her struggles with mental illness, including PTSD and bipolar disorder. We also talk about how resources are sparse for the treatment in the US, including the prohibitive costs for medications and treatment, as well as the utter lack of financial assistance for those who can’t afford these vital treatments. Lastly, we speak about the stigma around mental illness still prevalent in this country which is a further impediment towards recognizing mental illness as a critical issue in the US. Some of the things we speak about in this episode may be triggering, so please take that into consideration before listening.

Watch here.

National Alliance on Mental Illness

The Secular Therapy Project

Brigid Fitch on Facebook

Brigid Fitch’s Blog

TPPP Episode 84 : Trailer Park Politics

On this exciting episode of The Triple Po, I talk again to my old friend and fellow podcaster Tucker Drake. We talk a bit about the upcoming American Atheists Convention coming up in Cincinnati, and then it’s on to juicier fare. We talk about the awesomeness that is AOC, as well as other political topics such as the Democratic presidential field for 2020; the Electoral College; and wherever else our ramblings lead us. I thought it was a great stream of consciousness conversation regarding political topics of the day. I hope y’all agree!

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TPPP Episode 83 : Don’t Mess With Texas

It’s been a while, hasn’t it? This episode was done live on YouTube two months ago, but I”m just getting around to posting it! Bad Chris! I am going to try to pick things up, so hopefully this won’t happen anymore. 

I talked to Nathaniel Walters, an activist who is passionate about atheism and social democracy. I had a great time talking to him and the challenges he faces as an activist in Texas. Give it a listen!

Watch here.

TPPP Episode 81 : Launch Pad

This week I have on Rose Marie Pink, President and Executive Director of Launch Pad Nashville, “a volunteer-based initiative striving to provide street free sleep to youth between the ages of 18-24 with a focus on being affirming and welcoming to LGBTQ youth.” We talk about the organization’s genesis, mission, challenges, and goals. Launch Pad also happens to be the organization I chose for my Facebook Birthday Fundraiser this year. I am really proud to have supported them. They need volunteers, so consider signing up. Of course, they always need money as well, so feel free to donate! I hope y’all learn something from this, because I think it’s a great organization.

Watch here.

Launch Pad Nashville

Launch Pad Nashville on Facebook

Launch Pad Nashville on Instagram

TPPP Episode 80 : Living With PTSD

I am going to issue a content warning for this episode for talking about PTSD, suicide, and some combat violence.

This week I speak to Hyrum and Nate about some of their experiences with combat as well as PTSD, both combat and non-combat related, as well as other conditions that arose from traumatic brain injury. They also talk about the difficulty of re-adjusting to civilian life after combat, as well as the need to find purpose in order to stave off depression, even up to suicidal ideation. They also talk about ways to cope with these issues, though, and how anyone can learn to adjust with therapy, purpose, and a good support system. Finally, they emphasize that PTSD is a condition that can occur from any traumatic situation, not just combat. Thus the argument that somehow people who were never in combat can’t experience PTSD is absolutely false, and it is harmful to those who suffer from this condition. Everyone’s experiences and illnesses are valid, regardless of the circumstances. I really want to thank Hyrum and Nate for coming on, as I know it wasn’t easy to recall these painful experiences. I have great admiration for these men, and I hope their willingness to come forward and talk will give others the courage to do the same.

Watch here.

PBAInfo

Listening to shame | Brené Brown

The power of vulnerability | Brené Brown

Living with Prosopagnosia: How could you not know?

TPPP Episode 79 : Why The F*ck Should I Care About Philosophy?

This week I have on Nathan Dickey for one purpose : To tell me what I should care about philosophy. But first, we discussed the recent death of John McCain and our feelings on it. But then the main topic of philosophy was discussed. We discussed what philosophy is; a brief of history of how it evolved in its current understanding; how there are any good philosophy ‘communicators’ out there of any great stature to explain things to the layman; and some sources that are trying to do just that, via podcasts and YouTube. It’s a fascinating discussion. I don’t if he know convinced me or not, but he has definitely given me some things to think about. Perhaps, just perhaps, I will one day give a fuck about philosophy!

Watch here.

John McCain, senator and former presidential candidate, dies at 81

A Leap of Doubt Podcast

Nathan Dickey on Twitter

Physics Needs Philosophy / Philosophy Needs Physics

Philosophy Tube

Embrace The Void

Philosophers In Space

TPPP Episode 78 : An Atheist In Pittsburgh

This week on The Triple Po I am joined by logo enhancer and Facebook friend Jeff Prebeg. We talk about his activism, his work with charity, and his poor choice in hockey teams. We also rip on Trump, as well as discuss the difference between atheism and secular humanism, and the increasing gap between the two groups. Oh and cats. His cat has his own Facebook and Instagram! We had a great chat, and I enjoyed having him on even if he is a Pens fan. Enjoy!

Watch here.

Jeff Prebeg’s website

Jeff Prebeg on Twitter

Jojo The Wonder Puss on Facebook

Jojo The Wonder Puss on Instagram