Podcast Summary: Conspirituality Episode 262 - "Dems Ask 'What is a Man?'"
Release Date: June 19, 2025
Hosts: Derek Barris, Matthew Remsky, Julian Walker
Introduction
In Episode 262 of Conspirituality, hosts Derek Barris, Matthew Remsky, and Julian Walker delve into the shifting political landscape post the 2024 U.S. elections, focusing on the significant trend of young men gravitating toward former President Donald Trump. The episode explores the Democratic Party's strategic responses, the influence of right-wing media, and the underlying societal factors contributing to this demographic shift.
Election Analysis: The 2024 Shift
The hosts begin by analyzing the aftermath of the 2024 election, highlighting a notable gender and generational divide in voting patterns. While Kamala Harris maintained a narrow lead among the 18 to 29-year-old demographic, young men notably shifted their support to Trump by 16% more than women did.
"While Kamala Harris still won the overall 18 to 29 year old demographic by 6%, Trump improved his share by 9 points as compared to 2020. But men in that age group are the bigger story. They voted for Trump by 16% more than women did."
[02:01] - Julian Walker
This shift underscores a broader concern about the disenfranchisement of young men within the Democratic base.
Democratic Response: The SAM Project
In response to this trend, Democratic strategists and consultants Elise Hogue and John De Volpe have proposed the Speaking to American Men (SAM) project, a $20 million initiative aimed at reconciling young men's disenchantment with the Democratic Party.
Matthew Remsky outlines the project's core objectives:
"Their primary takeaways so far are that many young men feel invisible to the Democrats and perceive the party as weak and overly cautious, but they also believe neither party truly has their back. That they are feeling overlooked or deceived is emerging as a major theme."
[06:30] - Matthew Remsky
The SAM project seeks to engage young men through progressive influencers and targeted media strategies, attempting to bridge the gap created by right-wing narratives.
Influencers and Media: Shaping Young Men's Views
A significant portion of the discussion centers on the role of influential figures like Jordan Peterson, Andrew Tate, and Sneako in molding the perspectives of young men. These influencers propagate themes of masculinity, purpose, and resistance against perceived societal changes.
Julian Walker critiques the superficiality of these influencers:
"They are all just coming in to shoot the shit and talk about a range of topics, and then they're going to issue super relatable, but often poorly informed hot takes on culture war and politics."
[42:56] - Julian Walker
Conversely, Jordan Peterson is portrayed as a nuanced figure grappling with the "meaning crisis" faced by young men, advocating for responsibility and purpose.
"Jordan Peterson: ... why work hard? Why be of service to other people? Because it imbues your life with the significance that enables you to tolerate the difficulties of your existence and without bitterness and with hope."
[15:21] - Jordan Peterson
The Meaning Crisis: Searching for Purpose
The concept of a "meaning crisis" is central to the episode's exploration of young men's challenges. Influencers argue that contemporary society, marked by declining traditional structures like religion, leaves young men without a clear sense of purpose.
Julian Walker connects this crisis to historical and psychological frameworks:
"Awakening from the Meaning Crisis... According to Vervaeke, the breakdown of traditional wisdom structures has caused a rise of nihilism and despair."
[17:12] - Julian Walker
This void is often filled by online communities that reinforce negative stereotypes and conspiratorial thinking, exacerbating feelings of isolation and resentment.
Challenges for Democrats: Authenticity in Messaging
A recurring theme is the Democratic Party's struggle to authentically engage with young men. The hosts criticize the SAM project's perceived inauthenticity and lack of resonance with the target audience.
"It's not that people aren't trying, it's that trying is not easy. And whenever I hear that excuse, I know it's coming from people who want to be coddled instead of taught to do better..."
[37:09] - Derek Barris
Matthew Remsky echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for genuine connection rather than performative outreach.
"I think the SAM project seems doomed to failure if it just tries to learn to speak the language of a new generation of men who've had their media literacy deranged..."
[23:37] - Julian Walker
Potential Solutions: Rethinking Engagement Strategies
The hosts propose that instead of mimicking the performative tactics of right-wing influencers, Democrats should develop authentic, relatable messaging that addresses the real concerns of young men. This includes focusing on material issues such as economic opportunities, mental health, and social support systems.
Derek Barris suggests:
"Doing this type of content requires us to be critical of things that a lot of people see as mundane and inoffensive. And that's just the road we're on."
[37:09] - Derek Barris
Additionally, incorporating diverse voices and understanding the nuanced motivations behind young men's political affiliations are crucial for crafting effective outreach.
Conclusion: Navigating a Complex Landscape
The episode concludes with a reflection on the complexities of addressing the disenfranchisement of young men within the Democratic framework. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the underlying emotions and societal factors that drive political shifts, advocating for more empathetic and insightful strategies.
"The main thing that Gen Z wants to hear from anybody older is will you defend us."
[50:44] - Matthew Remsky
Derek Barris encapsulates the challenge:
"It's not that people aren't trying, it's that trying is not easy..."
[37:09] - Derek Barris
The discussion underscores the need for the Democratic Party to evolve its engagement strategies, moving beyond performative tactics to genuinely address and support the concerns of young men.
Notable Quotes:
-
"What is going on with young men?"
[02:01] - Julian Walker -
"There is a serious crisis of identity that people are starting to talk about."
[10:11] - Unknown Speaker -
"You don't know how to understand and maybe even respect anger, even if it is immature..."
[50:46] - Matthew Remsky
This episode of Conspirituality offers a comprehensive analysis of the intersection between political movements, media influence, and societal shifts affecting young men. It highlights the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in re-engaging a pivotal demographic and underscores the broader implications for public health and societal cohesion.