The Jordan Harbinger Show

Is sex trafficking really a global crisis or just an overblown conspiracy theory? Andrew Gold reveals truths and misconceptions on this Skeptical Sunday. Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and a guest break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions. This time around, we’re joined by On the Edge host Andrew Gold! On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss: Sex trafficking knows no borders, and the United States stands out as a particularly active region for this crime. It victimizes individuals regardless of age — notably, more than a fourth of those trafficked are minors. The scale of sex trafficking is difficult to determine accurately, with estimates varying widely. This uncertainty stems from the underground nature of the crime and challenges in data collection. Sex trafficking victims often suffer severe physical and mental health consequences, including STIs, injuries, PTSD, anxiety, depr

Students you aided became assailants, and now you deal with trauma and sleepless nights. Can you ever trust or rest easy again? Welcome to Feedback Friday! And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in! On This Week's Feedback Friday: After a disturbing incident with two students you mentored, you're grappling with unexpected trauma and insomnia. How can you rebuild your sense of safety and trust? [Thanks to clinical psychologist Dr. Erin Margolis for helping us with this one!] You've leveraged your networking skills to secure two six-figure director-level jobs simultaneously, but you're unsure about disclosing this to one employer. What's your strategy for

How does ISIS radicalize Westerners? Here, Tareena Shakil, who joined and escaped the group, reveals the manipulation behind her own recruitment. [Pt. 2/2 — find part 1 here!] What We Discuss: Tareena Shakil, a British woman, ran away to join ISIS in Syria in 2014 after experiencing domestic abuse and being radicalized online. While in Syria, Tareena realized ISIS was not what she expected and decided to escape across the border to Turkey with her young son. Tareena was arrested upon return to the UK and served three years in prison for joining ISIS. She was the first British woman to be imprisoned for joining the group. Tareena went through a deradicalization program in prison, which she found helpful in understanding how she has been groomed and radicalized. Tareena now works to raise awareness about online radicalization and grooming, showing that it's possible to learn from past mistakes and use one's experiences to prevent others from falling into similar traps. Her story demonstrates the importanc

How does ISIS radicalize Westerners? Here, Tareena Shakil, who joined and escaped the group, reveals the manipulation behind her own recruitment. [Pt. 1/2] What We Discuss: Tareena Shakil, a British woman, traveled to Syria with her young son and joined ISIS in 2014 at age 24 after being groomed online for about six weeks. Tareena's decision to join ISIS was influenced by a combination of factors, including online radicalization, a desire to escape an abusive relationship, and a misguided attempt at religious devotion. While in Syria, Tareena quickly realized she had made a mistake and wanted to leave. She witnessed disturbing events and became increasingly fearful for her and her son's safety. After about eight weeks, Tareena managed to escape ISIS-controlled territory with her son and return to the UK, where she was subsequently arrested and became the first British woman jailed for joining ISIS. Tareena's story highlights the importance of critical thinking, especially when it comes to online interac

Is gold really worth its weight? Michael Regilio digs into the precious metal's glittering past and fool-baiting present on this Skeptical Sunday! Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and a guest break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions. This time around, we’re joined by skeptic, comedian, and podcaster Michael Regilio! On This Week's Skeptical Sunday: Gold has been valued throughout human history, playing a significant role in economics, trade, and even exploration. It has been used as currency and the basis for monetary systems like the gold standard. The gold standard, which linked the value of currency to gold, was widely adopted but eventually abandoned. The United States officially ended its use of the gold standard in 1971 under President Nixon. There are many scams and misleading practices in the gold market, particularly involving the sale of gold coins. These often target older,

Your abusive ex still occupies your thoughts. How do you move on when part of you yearns for a past steeped in trauma? Welcome to Feedback Friday! And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in! On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss: You're struggling with conflicting emotions after leaving an abusive relationship with an alcoholic partner. Despite the trauma you endured, you find yourself missing aspects of the relationship. How do you process these complex feelings and move forward? Your father, diagnosed with cancer, also struggles with severe depression. As his health declines, you grapple with a strained relationship and unfulfilled hopes for connec

Renowned divorce lawyer James Sexton reveals the secrets to maintaining a healthy marriage and avoiding his office altogether! [Pt. 2/2 — find part 1 here!] What We Discuss with James Sexton: Many people enter marriage without understanding its legal implications. James Sexton estimates that 95% of people who come to his office are learning about the marriage contract for the first time. Social media has made infidelity much easier and more accessible. James notes that platforms like Facebook and Instagram create opportunities for inappropriate private conversations and flirtations. Prenuptial agreements are becoming increasingly common, especially among younger people in their 20s and 30s. James observes a growing pragmatism and realism in approaching marriage. All marriages end, either through death or divorce. James encourages people to be mindful of endings, as it can make them more appreciative of their current relationships. Being open and honest about your concerns and fears in a relationship can

Renowned divorce lawyer James Sexton reveals the secrets to maintaining a healthy marriage and avoiding his office altogether! [Pt. 1/2] What We Discuss with James Sexton: Marriage is statistically risky, with a 56% failure rate for first marriages. There's often an economic aspect to relationships that people don't openly discuss. People tend to fall in love quickly but fall out of love slowly. Constantly criticizing or trash-talking your partner, even in jest with friends, can be toxic to a relationship. Preventative maintenance is key to a healthy relationship. Just as you wouldn't wait until your teeth are falling out to go to the dentist, don't wait for major issues to arise in your relationship. And much more — be sure to tune in to part two of this conversation later this week! Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1035 This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relat

On Skeptical Sunday, Michael Regilio dishes out the skinny on fat-free foods and their weighty consequences that led to our 21st-century obesity epidemic! Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and a guest break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions. This time around, we’re joined by skeptic, comedian, and podcaster Michael Regilio! On This Week's Skeptical Sunday: The low-fat diet trend, popularized in the 1960s and 1970s, was based on flawed science and cherry-picked data, particularly from the selective research of physiologist Ancel Keys. Removing fat from food products often led to increased sugar and refined carbohydrate content, contributing to the obesity and diabetes epidemics in the United States. The American Heart Association and other institutions have been slow to change their dietary recommendations due to conflicts of interest and corporate donations. Consuming healthy fats is

Your ex-best friend groped someone, and now he's flirting with a mutual friend on Twitter. Do you warn her or stay out of it? Welcome to Feedback Friday! And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in! On This Week's Feedback Friday: Your now ex-best friend groped your wife's best friend during an overnight visit. Now he seems to be courting a mutual friend on social media. How can you warn her about his problematic history without overstepping boundaries? Your 93-year-old mother, with whom you've had a rocky relationship, stole a cherished toy your late father gifted to you and gave it to your sibling. This was the last straw in a long history of mistreatmen

Beyond pregnancy prevention, birth control pills affect the way women think and behave. Dr. Sarah Hill explains their invisible impacts here! [Part 2/2 — find part 1 here!] What We Discuss: Birth control pills can potentially affect brain development in teenagers, raising concerns about prescribing them for non-contraceptive reasons like acne treatment. There's a possible link between birth control use and increased risk of depression, especially in younger women (up to 300% increased risk for teenagers). The politicization of birth control information has led to extreme views on both sides, making it difficult for women to access balanced, scientifically accurate information. Current research methods may mask individual experiences with birth control, as averaging results can hide significant variations among women. How women can empower themselves to take control of their reproductive health while being mindful of potential impacts on their overall well-being. And much more — be sure to catch part one

Beyond pregnancy prevention, birth control pills affect the way women think and behave. Dr. Sarah Hill explains their invisible impacts here! [Part 1/2] What We Discuss: Birth control pills affect more than just fertility — they can influence a woman's partner preferences, career choices, and overall behavior due to hormonal changes. Women on birth control may choose different types of partners compared to when they're off the pill, potentially leading to relationship changes if they stop taking it. The pill can alter women's stress responses and immune function, potentially increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and autoimmune issues. Birth control pills may reduce sexual desire and change how women perceive attraction cues in potential partners. Women can make more informed decisions about their health and relationships by understanding these effects. Consider discussing with a healthcare provider about trying periods off birth control when making major life decisions or choosing long-term partne

If you're possessed by curiosity about the efficacy of exorcisms to eradicate evils or illnesses, Andrew Gold compels you to enjoy this Skeptical Sunday! Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and a guest break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions. This time around, we’re joined by On the Edge host Andrew Gold! On This Week's Skeptical Sunday: Exorcism gained widespread popularity after the release of the movie The Exorcist in 1973, which dramatically influenced beliefs about demonic possession and exorcism practices worldwide. While exorcism is not scientifically valid, it can sometimes provide temporary relief through placebo effects, adrenaline rushes, and psychological catharsis. However, these effects are typically short-lived and do not address underlying mental health issues. Exorcism practices can be dangerous, with some cases resulting in injury or death, particularly when performed o

Your wife's dementia diagnosis at 43 has turned your world upside down. How do you care for her while preserving your sanity? Welcome to Feedback Friday! And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in! On This Week's Feedback Friday: Your wife was diagnosed with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia at 43, causing major personality changes. She now has delusions and aggression towards you. As her caregiver and husband, how do you cope with this devastating situation while maintaining your own well-being? You're a 31-year-old woman who's never dated before. You recently connected with a guy over intellectual discussions, but he suddenly cut off contact as

Ex-CIA Chief of Disguise Jonna Mendez reveals Cold War spy tactics, from high-tech masks to pop-up dummies, and risks faced by agents in Moscow! [Note: This is a previously broadcast episode from the vault that we felt deserved a fresh pass through your earholes!] What We Discuss with Jonna Mendez: What was it like to work as a heavily surveilled CIA operative in the Soviet Union at the height of the Cold War? Why did the United States have to rebuild its embassy in Moscow from the ground up in the early ’90s? How aspiring artists like Jonna and her late husband Antonio (played by Ben Affleck in Argo) got involved in working for the CIA. How the CIA recruits brilliant scientific minds to develop cutting-edge solutions when it can only offer a fraction of compensation offered by the private sector. The evolution of how disguise has come to be used in the intelligence community since the ’70s, and the role Jonna has taken in its progress. And much more… Full show notes and resources can be found here: j

Veteran CIA operative and disguise specialist Jonna Mendez joins us to discuss how Cold War espionage shaped modern intelligence gathering!Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1027What We Discuss with Jonna Mendez:Jonna Mendez broke barriers as a woman in the CIA during a time when women were often limited to secretarial roles. She had to persistently push for opportunities to do field work and technical operations.The CIA’s Office of Technical Services (OTS) developed sophisticated disguise and surveillance techniques, including creating masks, altering appearances, and devising ways to evade detection in hostile environments.Cold War espionage, especially in places like Berlin, involved complex operations, surveillance, and counter-surveillance techniques. The Berlin Wall era presented unique challenges and opportunities for intelligence gathering.Transitioning out of CIA work can be challenging due to the secretive nature of the job, with many agents struggling to

Is hypnosis helpful or just hyped hooey? Listen to the sound of Andrew Gold's voice as we explore its potential and limitations here on Skeptical Sunday! Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and a guest break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions. This time around, we’re joined by On the Edge host Andrew Gold! On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss: Hypnosis is real but often misunderstood. It's more akin to guided concentration than the sensationalized mind control portrayed in movies and books. Hypnosis has shown effectiveness in various fields, including pain management, anxiety reduction, and sports psychology, but its results can be variable and are not guaranteed for everyone. Scientific studies using fMRI scans have shown that hypnosis can genuinely affect brain activity, particularly in areas related to memory recall and visualization. Despite popular misconceptions, hypnosis ca

The creepy ex-boss you hooked up with as an insecure youth was recently exposed as a pedophile. How do you process this? Welcome to Feedback Friday! And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in! On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss: You slept with a man twice your age when you were in your early 20s, only to discover years later that he was a pedophile. How do you cope with the guilt and shame of this unsettling experience? You've been premed since undergrad but keep struggling with the MCAT, jeopardizing your chances of getting into medical school. Is it time to consider a career change or should you give it one last shot? Your mother-in-law has kep

Body language expert Blake Eastman debunks nonverbal myths and reveals how AI is revolutionizing our understanding of human behavior and communication! What We Discuss with Blake Eastman: Traditional body language "rules" (like crossed arms meaning resistance or eye movements indicating lying) are often oversimplified and unreliable. Context, individual differences, and cultural factors play a significant role in interpreting nonverbal behavior. Detecting lies through body language alone is not reliable. Even trained professionals struggle to accurately identify deception based solely on nonverbal cues. Social context and cultural norms greatly influence how we interpret and display nonverbal behavior. What's considered appropriate or meaningful in one culture may be perceived differently in another. AI and machine learning are being developed to analyze human behavior, including facial expressions, voice patterns, and other nonverbal cues. This technology has potential applications in various fields, in

Nip, tuck, and...regret? Michael Regilio examines plastic surgery's complex history — from ancient noses to modern BBLs — on this Skeptical Sunday! Welcome to Skeptical Sunday, a special edition of The Jordan Harbinger Show where Jordan and a guest break down a topic that you may have never thought about, open things up, and debunk common misconceptions. This time around, we’re joined by skeptic, comedian, and podcaster Michael Regilio! On This Week's Skeptical Sunday: Plastic surgery has a long history dating back to ancient times, originally developed to help people with disfigurements or injuries, but has evolved to include cosmetic procedures. The popularity of plastic surgery has increased dramatically worldwide, driven by factors such as social media, filters, and changing beauty standards. In some countries, like South Korea and China, it has become deeply ingrained in the culture. There are significant risks associated with plastic surgery, including medical complications, psychological issues, an