Conspirituality Podcast Episode Summary

Title: Relief Project #8: Blair Hodges
Hosts/Authors: Derek Beres, Matthew Rebsky, Julian Walker
Release Date: February 18, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Conspirituality, host Matthew Rebsky engages in a profound conversation with Blair Hodges, a recurring guest known for his insightful perspectives on dismantling New Age cults and conspiracy-driven ideologies. The discussion delves into Blair's personal journey from his Mormon upbringing to his current endeavors in community building and social justice. Recorded before a significant election, the episode captures Blair's fears, hopes, and strategies for fostering resilient communities in turbulent times.

1. Personal Fears in Contemporary Times

The conversation kicks off with Blair addressing his deepest fears in the current sociopolitical climate.

• Election Concerns: Blair expresses anxiety about the impending presidential election, emphasizing the potential catastrophic impact of a particular administration.

  Blair Hodges [04:05]: "Immediate policies that pertain to me are things like regarding trans issues, trans rights, ongoing racism in America and how to reckon with that..."

• Trans Rights and Racism: He highlights fears surrounding the erosion of trans rights and the persistent racism in predominantly white communities like Utah.

  Blair Hodges [04:49]: "We're seeing an uptick in legislation and attacks on gender non-conforming people. And it's really scary."

2. Sources of Wisdom and Relief

Blair shares the foundational principles that anchor him amidst chaos, drawing from his Mormon background.

• The Four Rs of Repentance: Recognition, Remorse, Restitution, and Renewal serve as a framework for personal and societal transformation.

  Blair Hodges [05:50]: "Recognition, remorse, restitution, and renewal... It's been a really helpful concept to think about."

• Evolving Understanding: Initially, Blair applied repentance to personal misdemeanors but has since expanded its scope to address systemic injustices.

  Blair Hodges [07:01]: "I didn't have much in the way of forcing a recognition of that fact... It brings recognition to me that there are these other perspectives..."

3. Overcoming Obstacles to Community Building

The dialogue shifts to the challenges Blair faces in fostering community relationships.

• Time Constraints: Balancing a 40-hour workweek, parenting, and other responsibilities makes community engagement daunting.

  Blair Hodges [11:04]: "It really boils down to time. We have kids and we're both working. ... There's just so many hours in the day."

• Post-Pandemic Disconnection: The aftermath of COVID-19 has led to the weakening of previously strong community ties.

  Blair Hodges [11:54]: "Coming out of COVID when things got so disconnected for so many people... those connections atrophied."

• Strategies for Engagement: Blair advocates for starting small with manageable volunteer opportunities and strengthening immediate family bonds.

  Blair Hodges [12:18]: "Find an easy volunteer opportunity... Spend more time with the kids or get away from social media more often."

4. Guiding Children Through Climate Anxiety

Blair offers a compassionate approach to comforting children distressed by climate change fears.

• Active Listening: He emphasizes the importance of allowing children to voice their fears and validating their emotions.

  Blair Hodges [15:31]: "The first thing I would do is ask them what they think about it and really plug into what they're saying."

• Empowering Solutions: Encouraging children to participate in actionable steps fosters a sense of control and agency.

  Blair Hodges [16:19]: "What can we do, my little friend? What's within our power that we can do now?"

• Balancing Hope and Realism: Blair navigates the delicate balance between offering hope through individual actions and educating children about broader systemic issues.

  Blair Hodges [18:10]: "We can only do so much... we're engaged civically. That's why we vote."

5. Wisdom from Ancestors and Responsibility

The conversation culminates with Blair reflecting on the advice of James Baldwin and the concept of enduring responsibility.

• James Baldwin's Influence: Baldwin's assertion that "Responsibility cannot be lost. Responsibility can only be abdicated," resonates deeply with Blair.

  Blair Hodges [20:37]: "Responsibility cannot be lost. Responsibility can only be abdicated. And if one refuses abdication, one begins again."

• Commitment to Learning and Action: Blair acknowledges his privilege and the importance of learning from marginalized voices without positioning himself as a savior.

  Blair Hodges [22:36]: "I'm here to learn and to help. We're not here to save."

• Integrating Historical Wisdom: He encourages engaging with historical narratives and voices, such as those of Baldwin and Audre Lorde, to inform present-day community efforts.

  Blair Hodges [24:35]: "Visit your civil rights museum... listen to the voices of people who have been feared."

Conclusion

Blair Hodges provides a nuanced perspective on navigating personal fears, building resilient communities, and fostering meaningful dialogues with the younger generation. By integrating his religious upbringing with contemporary social justice principles, Blair exemplifies a path of continuous learning, responsibility, and compassionate action. This episode of Conspirituality offers listeners valuable insights into combating the corrosive effects of conspiracy-mad ideologies through grounded, empathetic community engagement.

Notable Quotes:

• Blair Hodges [05:51]: "Recognition, remorse, restitution, and renewal... It's been a really helpful concept to think about."
• Blair Hodges [16:20]: "That is scary."
• Blair Hodges [20:37]: "Responsibility cannot be lost. Responsibility can only be abdicated."
• Blair Hodges [22:36]: "I'm here to learn and to help."
• Blair Hodges [24:35]: "Visit your civil rights museum... listen to the voices of people who have been feared."

This summary encapsulates the essence of the Relief Project #8: Blair Hodges episode, providing an informative and engaging overview for those who haven't tuned in.