A Special Place in Hell

On this most special episode, the ladiex say a tearless goodbye to the campaign of Kamala Harris, as well as to our little podcast. Yes, you read that right: This is the Very

As a gesture of goodwill, we interrupt the election doom/analysis-vomit to bring you a calm, collected, and pre-recorded conversation with political scientist Wilfred Reilly. The threesome cover Wilfred's unique upbringing and current thoughts on race, academia, and the dating/mating crisis. Links* Wilfred's books: Lies My Liberal Teacher Told Me, Taboo: 10 Facts You Can't Talk About This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Penelope Trunk returns for another session of therapeutic sado-masochism. We relay listeners' most personal questions and Penelope duly dismisses their trauma and punishes them for such public displays of vulnerability—everyone wins! We hope this leaves you with a sense of relief and lightness. It's like a deep tissue massage for your (lame) psyche. And if not, don't blame us. You knew what you were getting into. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode of A Special Place, the ladies decide to get their act together and learn how to do this YouTube e-lady thing right. But first, a tribute to the heroes at the Rescue the Republic rally, who dared to believe they can still draw a crowd. Finally, some handwringing about Kids These Days, and the anti-natalism conspiracy of car seat regulations.Links * How to Succeed at a Mr. Beast Production* The Elite College Students Who Can't Read Books* K-12 Education in a Post-Literate Age* Cheat on Sarah! Subscribe to Meghan's YouTube Channel This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

On this sexploitative episode, the ladies discuss (disapprovingly, duh) a variety of recent steamy scandals: Olivia Nuzzi / RFK Jr. sexts, ex-COVID czar Jay Varma's pandemic sex parties, Chris Rufo's alleged Ashley Madison account, and more. Does anyone know how to have normal adulterous sex anymore? Where can Sarah get MDMA? Will Meghan, who just learned that eggplant emojis aren't invitations to go to the farmer's market, ever get the hang of emoji seduction? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

On this already-stale episode, the ladies discuss the past week's debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, before delving into the more politically salient topic of Joe Rogan's Austin kingdom. Finally, thoughts on the finer points of eating cats. Links * How Joe Rogan Remade Austin This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode, the ladies try and uncover the mysteries of AI, and whether it is about to take their jobs. Meghan says no, but is she in denial? Then, should you divorce your mom for worrying about your eternal soul? Is going "no contact" with grandma a form of self-care?Links* Why A.I. Isn't Going to Make Art * Why So Many People Are Going “No Contact” With Their Parents This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the girlx welcome special guestx Uri Berliner, journalist and famed NPR critic/apostate. Uri discusses his youthful attraction to public radio and how the slow erosion of many its ideals led to his decision to air his critique in the Free Press -- and, shortly thereafter, make his exit. He also reflects on how things have gone since the big leap. Was selling his soul to Bari Weiss worth it? (How can the girlx manage to do the same?)Note: This episode was recorded on June 18. Uri has since joined The Free Press as a senior editor. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode, the ladies white-knight Bari Weiss following a War and Peace-length profile in the NYTimes. Can any journalist be expected to cover The Free Press founder fairly, given that she's positioned herself as their main critic? Does Bari's unique ability to hold steady in the face of extreme character defamation prove that women really can be public champions of unpopular truths? Most importantly: will our fangirling lead to jobs offers or restraining orders? Finally, a discussion about marriageability vs. hotness. Is it a compliment to tell a man that you wouldn't just use him for his body, but rather, for his wallet? Links* Bari Weiss Knows Exactly What She's Doing This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

In this (livestreamed) episode, the ladies de-center their American colonialist perspective to consider the recent hooliganism across the pond. Has the UK slipped into authoritarianism? Is British post-colonial guilt giving American guilt a run for its money? Or did the song There Always Be An England mean there will always be the threat of jail for wrong-speak? Then, Meghan flip-flops on JD Vance's trans friend and finally, a (lengthy) showdown on Art and Regret.Links* ‘Think before you post': Britain's slide into censorship (Spiked)* She Used to Be Friends With JD Vance (The Daily)* The Emotion I Didn't Expect As A New Parent: Regret (NYTimes)* I Used to Write Jokes About How Parenting Is Terrible. Then I Had My Daughter. (NYTimes) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comOn this Excredrin-fueled episode, the ladies discuss the controversy surrounding the chromosomal makeup of Olympic boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting. They then move on to the latest scandal in the not (not)-for-profit world, this one involving GLAAD CEO Sarah Kate Ellis, whose enthusiasm for expensive chandeliers and Swiss Alps travel took money from the pockets of needy gays. Finally: Kamalot spamalot (it's out of control!) and the time Meghan wrote about the word "fag".To listen to the full episode (and get lots of other perks, too) become a paying subscriber!Links* Lavish Spending by GLAAD CEO

In this episode, the ladies again revisit motherhood and its (concerning?) lack of representation among young women. Do we need a GI Bill for trad wives? They then discuss a recent article on mega-influencer Hannah Neeleman (aka Ballerina Farm) and her large, photogenic family that also happens to be extraordinarily wealthy. Is she a servant of the patriarchy? Or is the tradlife a kind of extreme sport that proves her ultimate superiority? Finally, they go over the recent damning revelations by the NYTimes that JD Vance once had a queer friend. Links* Meet the queen of the ‘trad wives' https://www.thetimes.com/magazines/the-sunday-times-magazine/article/meet-the-queen-of-the-trad-wives-and-her-eight-children-plfr50cgk* My day with the trad wife queen https://www.thetimes.com/world/us-world/article/my-day-with-the-trad-wife-queen-and-what-i-really-thought-of-her-qmbmmhkp8* She Gave Birth Two Weeks Ago. Now She's in a Pageant. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/30/style/ballerina-farm-mrs-world-hannah-neeleman.html* JD Vance, an Unlikely Friendship, and Why It Ended. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/27/us/politics/jd-vance-friend-transgender.html This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

On this LIVESTREAMED episode, the womxn follow an inadvertently brilliant Twitter thread to its logical conclusion: that white-woman allyship means not wearing pink and green and never walking through conga lines. They explore the panoply of memes celebrating Kamala Harris's girlbossery, anticipate the Million White Woman March that is "Answer The Call," and consider the growing phenomenon of rich white men taking on non-white wives. Also: a eulogy for the sanity of Rachel Maddow, and the real reason why JD Vance was chosen for VP.Links* White Lady Allyship Instruction Manual (X thread)* Non-White Wives * Rachel Maddow on JD Vance This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

This is the second half of our extremely long interview with Simone and Malcolm Collins! (Part 1 can be found here.)We discuss gene pools, spanking, why autists are overrepresented in the pro-natalism movement and recount their own love story and evolution into "techno-puritans." Finally, they answer the definitive parenting question: is the harm of screen time overblown? Links* Malcolm and Simone's YT Channel Based Camp, Twitter, and Pronatalist Organization!* Article in the Gaurdian (featuring That Slap). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

Pro-natalism advocates Malcolm and Simone Collins are here to lead us into the Handmaiden's Tale (or guide us away from it, depending on your view)! In Part One of this very long interview, the bespectacled iconoclasts share their thoughts on how modern society stacks the deck against fertility, especially those seeking to represent the U.S. in the fecundity Olympics (Malcolm and Simone are the parents of four children and hope to have nine more). They also assess the damage caused by the "trad wife" image, explain their views on spanking, caution against the progressive plot to Come For Your Kids, and expound on abortion. (You might be surprised!)In the upcoming Part Two (available NOW to paying members here), the Collinses discuss why autists are over-represented in the pro-natalism movement and recount their own love story and evolution into "techno-puritans." Finally, they answer the definitive parenting question: Is the harm of screen time overblown?Subscribe to get the full interview NOW, plus all our bonus episodes and access to the comment community!Links* Malcolm and Simone's YT Channel Based Camp, Twitter, and Pronatalist Organization! * Article in the Gaurdian (featuring That Slap). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

The girlx enjoy a leisurely news day by discussing Saturday's assassination attempt on Trump followed by the announcement of his VP pick, J.D. Vance. The counterintuitive takes are flying! Are Trump rallies the ultimate experience in "touching grass?" Is Vance's political shift rooted solely in opportunism? Or does his conversion from Never Trumper to "actually I'm starting to like this guy" mirror the political journey of many disenchanted liberals?Links* Republican Party Platform * Melania Trump's statement* President Biden's statement This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comThis MEMBER ONLY episode is all about parenting, or at least, exceptionally bad parenting. First, they cover the explosive revelations of child abuse in an essay by the daughter of acclaimed writer Alice Munro, before moving onto another essay by Bridget Phetasy, in which she catalogs her own experience as a neglected child of divorce. Is no-fault divorce good for women, but bad for mothers?Links* My stepfather sexually abused me when I was a child. My mother, Alice Munro, chose to stay with him* How divorce never ends* Meghan's Substack post about Alice Munro* Meghan's Unspeakable conversation with Bridget Phetasy about divorce

Podcast production legend Andy Mills survived–and thrived–in the venerable halls of NPR and the New York Times, where he worked for Radiolab, co-creating The Daily as well as series like Rabbit Hole and Caliphate. More recently, he co-created groundbreaking podcast The Witch Trials of JK Rowling for The Free Press. Today, he's living in the midwest and, along with his creative partner Matthew Boll, trying to build his own platform, one meticulously produced podcast at a time. Is he losing his mind? Or getting his soul back?Check out Andy and Mathew Boll's new podcast, the Reflector:We need you, we love you. Do you love us???? (Subscribe please, this is degrading.) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

The ladies bid a fulsome adieu to Pride Month and reflect on its most photogenic moments this year. They then enter a post-partum depression over Thursday's debate, the only treatment for which is heavy doses of copium. Then, an analysis at the most "mid" first lady in history, Dr. Jill Biden, and Meghan sheds white tears recalling her Twitter pile-on of a lifetime by Brave BIPOC Women. Finally, they cap off the episode with a discussion on the difficulties of being a progressive father Just Trying To Have It All.Links* First Lady Jill Biden on What's at Stake in 2024 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comIn this PAYWALLED EPISODE, the girlx/womxn practice self-harm by watching the Presidential debates from the nail-biting beginning to the eyeball-gouging end. Despite it all, Meghan feels strangely exhilarated by this rare moment of national unity (everyone agrees it was terrible). They speculate about what the Dems were thinking (is it 4D chess or classic incompetence?) Finally, they address some listener questions about their political allegiances. Are the masks finally coming off, revealing their true MAGA selves?

On this episode, the girlx/womxn discuss the "Main Character Energy" of GOP women, inspired by a new article by former guest Rebecca Traister. Are these tanned and toned patriot babes trying to have their cake and eat it too, or are they secretly spitting it out when no one's watching? What are normie feminists missing about the complexities of the cultural moment, and what is the appeal of guns + long hair? Also: a debate over the meaning of "butch." Finally, they discuss President Trump's interview on the All-In Podcast. Has Trump won the womxn over, or has he failed to close this deal?Special Places require Special Work. Will you be our Special Savior, and support the pod? Links* How Did Republican Women End Up Like This?* Trump on All-In Pod This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the girlx/womxn are slightly late to the party in discussing a long piece on Ibram Kendi's implosion, courageously subverting their audience's expectations in order to side, at least sympathize, with the BIPOC man. Was Kendi set up to fail? Did white people set him up to fail? Is this a (very meta) manifestation of the very white supremacy that the Center for Anti-Racist Research was set up to combat? (Yes, yes, and naturally). They then move on to narcissism in the Instagram-girl world. Is it just normal to treat every waking moment of your life like a scene from a movie? Is "boyfriend" just another word for key grip? Finally, a discussion on short hair on women--is it sexy and subversive, or just another way of turning into your mom?A Special Place In Hell is a reader-supported publication, as we have yet to find our billionaire benefactor/sugar momala. Please step in and step up—we need you! Links* Ibram X. Kendi Faces a Reckoning of His Own (NYT)* Your Boyfriend Isn't Your Camera Man (After Babel) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode, the girlx/womxm listen and learn from award-winning adult film director and screenwriter, Jacky St. James. Jacky details what a day of shooting on a porn set really entails, the effect of "tube sites" on the industry, the wisdom of MILFs, and how cancel culture came for porn (proving that nothing really is sacred). The episode comes to completion with a discussion on the future: AI sexbots and how parents can teach kids about responsible consumption.We love you, we need you!! But do you love us? Subscribe to prove you care (and unlock all episodes + comment community). LinksJacky's Website This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

In a devastating turn of events, the girlx/womxn were FORCED to prepare for this week's recording in order to discuss the Trump verdict with a modicum of intelligence. The deck was stacked against them. Nevertheless, they persisted. Then, a brief update on G*NDER: the U.K. officially bans the use of puberty blockers in gender dysphoric kids, thereby denying life-saving care to 7-year-olds who have the wrong taste in clothing. Will England's TERF surf ever reach America's shores? Finally, a discussion on child abuse, in which the girlx land squarely in the "pro-spanking" camp, and reveal that they had both been spanked as children by their mothers. (Though Sarah's mom sounds a lot scarier.) Does this explain their hatred of women?Without your support, we literally cannot go on. Help preserve and protect this Special Place by becoming a paying subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

In this education-centered episode, the womxn first admonish the Officially Brave efforts of a DEI admissions officer who may be behind the shocking downward trajectory of UCLA's medical school. They then contradict themselves to wonder how much education matters anyway. Is our kids learning? Was they ever learning? Finally, Meghan takes us down memory lane (as if she has any other lanes), to a time when documentaries were artsy and good. Was the late Morgan Spurlock of "Supersize Me" fame to blame for trash-activist-documentaries? Or was he simply standing on the supersized shoulders of Michael Moore?Affirm and enable us by becoming a paid subscriber today. LinksHow Racial Preferences, Supposedly Outlawed in California, Have Persisted at UCLA by Aaron SibariumA Theoretical Case Against Education at Astra Codex Ten This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comThe girlx/womxn begin the episode with an animated discussion about abortion -- or, more precisely because they boringly agree on the issue itself -- the veracity of a viral thread on Twitter related to the Texas abortion ban. They then react to a recent embarrassing appearance by Martha Nussbaum, in which the renowned philosopher displayed her ignorance of the global fertility crisis. Is she just too old to keep up? Or is she misinformed because she doesn't listen to enough podcasts, like a real intellectual?Want to hear the full episode? You know what to do. Links * Miscarriage husband's Twitter post. * Martha Nussbaum clip from Wisdom of Crowds, and full interview.

Problematic geneticist Razib Khan returns to A Special Place to discuss the natalist turf wars (trad-caths vs. techno-degenerates), woke women, and the importance of BEING KIND. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

Another day, another viral video begging for deconstructive interrogation by our heroines. Its central question: can women be trusted to know what they want? (Let alone say it?) Can men be trusted not to take everything literally? Is consent culture bad for the autistic among us, or just Sarah? Speaking of dishonesty, Meghan notices that a much-ballyhooed newcomer to the heterodoxy who is, as the kids/Sarah say, highly (maybe) "suss". Finally, the girls review a shitty list of "shitty zionists", and complain that they're not on it. (Kinda like they weren't invited to the natalist conference.)Become an enabler in our grift (and get access to all episodes) by subscribing below! Links* The viral clip in discussion.* Recent news items about Bumble.* The “Shitty Zionist” list. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

In this LIVE-STREAMED episode, the girlx/womxn weigh in on the Man vs. Bear discourse. If you're going to experience a #MeToo event in forest, who would you rather be able to sic a Title IX officer on later? A bear or a human man? The answer may (not) surprise you.Then, Meghan dishes about her time at Dissident Dialogues, a convention of heretics at which she dissented from the dialogue by not giving any talks or speaking on any panels. But she was still a VIP, and what else really matters? Finally, the women share their views on the neverending LARP on college campuses.Live-streamed episodes are released right after the recording (and entirely unedited) on YouTube for paying subscribers only. If you'd like early access and all the bonus content, subscribe and join in! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

Do all dogs go to heaven? Or just those euthanized by Strong Republican Women? Like Kristi Noem (with a dash of Glennon Doyle?), the girlx/womxn prove they Can Do Hard Things when it feels right. Listeners will be dismayed to discover that what feels right today is agreeing with the overturning of Harvey Weinstein case in New York and poking holes in the witness testimony. Act 3: Women's tears: a discussion. (Again.)Relevant Links* The Guardian on Kristi Noem* JoAnn Wypijewski's 2020 article in The Nation on Weinstein This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comHow is a cruise like BDSM? How is BDSM like this podcast? The girlx/womenx begin by clearing their throats about the last episode (TLDR: we are sorry you are mad), and Sarah recounts her tragic, abusive childhood (and in so doing provides living proof that hurt people hurt people). They then move on to the chaos at Columbia, sidestepping the political discussion entirely to wave their canes at the damned kids. Nothing in life is free, and especially not this podcast. To hear the full version, click on the red button. If you are a paying subscriber, thanks and welcome! Link to the YouTube video is below.Links * CRYING MYSELF TO SLEEP ON THE BIGGEST CRUISE SHIP EVER by Gary Shteyngart* No Dorm or Dining Hall: Ilhan Omar's Daughter Recounts Protest Arrest* Isra Hirsi, Ilhan Omar's Daughter, On Columbia Arrests, Barnard Suspension, Palestine ProtestsFeeling alone? Want to “touch grass” and “make friends” and “feel like a person worthy of authentic human consideration”? Sign up for the next Unspeakeasy retreat, here!

In the wake of the solar eclipse, the girls/women contemplate the state of American leisure, particularly, the Supposedly Fun™ pastime of cruise vacations. After taking an intermission to defend the TERF Queen from the usual suspects, they (aka Sarah) chastise second generation immigrants for being ingrates. Finally, another argument about psychotherapy (sorry!). Feeling guilty about freeloading? Subscribe and find relief (and bonus episodes)!Links: * CRYING MYSELF TO SLEEP ON THE BIGGEST CRUISE SHIP EVER by Gary Shteyngart * Activist faces 18 felony counts for allegedly threatening Bakersfield City Council* SHIPPING OUT by David Foster Wallace* Tweet by Rivkah Brown on JK Rowling This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

Our fearless heroines return once again to defend the indefensible. First, they throw their hat in with the chaotic billionaire of Twitter/X, no not Elon Musk (although him too), but terf-queen J.K. Rowling. Why is Scotland so fascist? Should America invade that country, if for no other reason than to water down those unintelligible accents? Then they ruminate over class, wondering why everyone is afraid of rural whites. Finally (and probably inevitably) Meghan defends the honor of Woody Allen, who she suspects is the Real Victim. All that said, we all know that the real victim is Justice – and also, you the listener. LinksAn Utterly Misleading Book About Rural America by Tyler Austin HarperTwitter/X thread by Hussein Aboubakr MansourA Son Speaks Out, Moses Farrow on Woody Allen and Mia Farrow This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comOn this live-streamed (and members-only) episode, the girls/women ponder the merits of yet another titillating essay by Pulitzer Prize winner and aspiring female Andrea Long Chu, who argues that transition should be understood and accepted as a matter of choice, of a “freedom of sex”. Has Chu finally gone too far? Or is this a preview of our glorious genderf*ck future?Then, Sarah finally reveals her misogynoir, appalling Meghan, who is still reeling from her last encounter with Intersectionality Twitter. Finally, they discuss yet another essay by Grazie Sophia Christie, a rising star in the personal essay genre (so say we). Is petty female envy the reason women will not take us to Mars? Did you know? Paying subscribers get bonus episodes AND unedited livestream videos! You read that right: For only $7/month, you can witness a more authentic version of us, feeling closer to your she-ros than ever before. Is this the beginning of a true (parasocial) love? Subscribe to find out. LinksFreedom of Sex The moral case for letting trans kids change their bodiesMy Beautiful Friend

On this very long episode, the girls/women discuss the recent New York Magazine piece on Andrew Huberman's allegedly womanizing ways.  Meghan defends the magazine fact-checking process, but Sarah finds the whole thing disgusting. They both agree that attempting to optimize your poops is psychotic, unless of course it is done in the name of Science. They then move on to age gaps in dating, and whether Sarah is trash for dressing for the Male Gaze. Our little Special Place is supported entirely by listeners. Help us keep it going by becoming a paying subscriber, and get access to bonus episodes and the comment community!Links New York Magazine: Andrew Huberman's Mechanisms of Control The Cut: The Case for Marrying an Older Man  This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

This week, the girls/women are joined by writer Larissa Phillips, and the three discuss her recent essay in which she recounts her violent rape in the early 90s. Larissa shares her thoughts on the helpfulness of “trauma” discourse on recovery, the #metoo era, and the tension between personal responsibility and public trust.They also touch on Larissa's work in adult literacy, a subject Sarah finds especially interesting, as she's still learning how to read.Relevant LinksLarissa's Essay in Quillette  After Rape: A Guide for the Tormented by Celeste MarcusOn Not Being A Victim by Mary Gaitskill, Harper's Magazine, March 1994 Know someone who would love this episode? Gift a paid subscription! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode, the girls/women bicker about the value of human life. Maybe fewer humans is better for humanity? Or maybe population collapse will send us spiraling into extinction, which would be terrible for our subscription growth. Is there anything we can do to stop the ongoing panda-fication of our youth? Or will the kids just happily lay around eating bamboo, never reproducing, but always looking cute. Paying subscribers get most episodes early, plus bonus episodes just for them. LinksEzra Klein Podcast: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/19/opinion/ezra-klein-podcast-jennifer-sciubba.html?smid=url-shareQuit Your Job on Palladium: https://www.palladiummag.com/2022/01/06/quit-your-job/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit aspecialplace.substack.com/subscribe

Inexplicably, the girls/women are graced by the Edward R. Murrow of YouTube punditry, the lovely Ana Kasparian, executive producer and co-host of the long-running political commentary show The Young Turks. Ana guides us through the old and new media landscapes and shares the alarming experience at the root of her heterodox awakening. The girls/women share their frustrations with the Left (a first!) and wonder whether friendships discourage intellectual honesty (except the one with their new bestie Ana of course!!!). Finally, the hosts receive some tips on improving their grift.Know someone who would love this episode? Gift a paid subscription!Housekeeping

Become a member if you want full access to all episodes.On this episode, the girls/women are joined by Mia Hughes, author of the groundbreaking report based on files released from the internal messaging forum of the leading authority of transgender healthcare (“WPATH”). The report confirms some of the worst fears of critics of the gender movement—the files reveal widespread disregard for medical ethics and patient outcomes or overall well-being. Mia guides us through the evolution of WPATH, its peculiar membership, and what makes this a particularly challenging scandal to address.Links: The WPATH Files: Pseudoscientific surgical and hormonal experiments on children, adolescents, and vulnerable adultsKnow someone who would love this episode? Gift a paid subscription!Housekeeping

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comThe girlx/womxn discuss an essay on Women's Bodies. Is there no end to the misery of being female? Or are men more oppressed, first and foremost by their boners? They then move on to moralizing about Kids These Days™. Have smart phones made an entire generation basically learning disabled? Or is it the hormones in the water? (And here we thought zoomer TikToks were incomprehensible because we are old  — or, in the case of Sarah, old-adjacent.)  Relevant Links“How Feminism Ends” by Ginevra DavisReddit Post on Students and Falling Standards HOUSEKEEPING

Today in hell, the girls/women find themselves divided by a much-discussed personal essay in The Cut about divorce or near-divorce (or the dream of divorce?) Meghan stands up for creative license (even when suspended), while Sarah sips on some haterade. In moments, the girlxs' differencex seem irreconcialable, but they eventually decide to stay together for the sake of the kids (aka paying subscribers). Plus: Meghan attends the premiere of film version The Coddling of The American Mind in a packed and anti-fragile theater in Beverly Hills.  RELEVANT LINKS“The Lure of Divorce” by Emily Gould from The Cut.The Coddling of The American Mind Movie.Get early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comOur episode with Sam Harris is for premium subscribers only. Free subscribers only get the first 50 minutes. Become a member if you want early access to all episodes and get access to the bonus-only episodes.Respected public intellectual and ultra-meditator Sam Harris makes another questionable career choice by joining us in our Special Place. Though he rarely broaches the subject of GEND*R, he willingly risks it all (especially considering our massive audience) and strides boldly across the minefield of explosive topics we lay out. He also shares his thoughts on audience capture, religion, cats, stoicism, and (naturally) Taylor Swift. Get early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING

In this first-of-its-kind livestream, the girls/women begin by discussing whether Taylor Swift is “mid,” as the males of Twitter proclaim. They decide that she's still highly desirable (because if she isn't, then what does that say about podcasters!?)Then, then ponder why young women appear to radicalizing into extreme leftist politics. Is it just about the vibes? Or are Women Going Their Own Way (WGTOW), now that the men have failed to launch? RELEVANT LINKS“A new global gender divide is emerging” from the Financial TimesGet early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comThis episode is for paid subscribers only. Become a member if you want early access to all episodes and get access to the bonus-only episodes.The girls/women discuss Kate Manne's new book on fatphobia, Unshrinking, and its recent excerpt in The Cut.Also, who has done more for body positivity: feminists or the Kardashians? Are anorexic models the result of gay men controlling the fashion industry? And why did everyone start to get fat in the 1980s? Is it because food became laced with preservatives and endocrine disruptors? (Or do we blame working moms?) Finally, is nutrition a real science or a dark art?RELEVANT LINKS“Unshrinking: How to Face Fatphobia” by Kate Manne.Kate Manne's book excerpt in The Cut.“Fat positivity is a fantasy” by Kat Rosenfield for Unherd.Get early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING

In this episode, a brief discussion on audience demographics. Then, a characteristically philosophical discussion on polyamory and how to find happiness despite being trapped in a crappy life. Lastly, a look at the groundbreaking NYT expose of problematic emails at the Claremont Institute. Finally, journalists do something useful. RELEVANT LINKS“‘America Is Under Attack': Inside the Anti-D.E.I. Crusade” from the New York Times.“Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals” by Oliver Burkeman.Get early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING

This week, the girlx compare notes about how they spent Martin Luther King Day, and Meghan recalls one of her first public speaking events. They then analyze the rise of Twitter trad bros advocating for stupid but hot stay-at-home wives, wonder if high IQ women have a “tall girl problem,” and marvel at how polyamorous people manage to “have it all.”RELEVANT LINKS“How a Polyamorous Mom Had ‘a Big Sexual Adventure' and Found Herself,” from the New York Times.“Interested in Polyamory? Check Out These Places,” from the New York Times.Get early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING

Legendary radio host, comedian and Scarily Acute Observer of Human Behavior Adam Carolla visits the pod to discuss the girlx favorite question: has the entire world become feminized? It's been 13 years since the publication of Adam's stunningly prescient book In Fifty Years We'll All Be Chicks. How did Adam get it so right, so early?Plus: Why did Adam and his Loveline co-host Dr. Drew Pinsky have a falling out  with David Alan Grier? Why Adam is leaving California as soon as his kids finish high school? (And where is he going?) Finally, Adam gives Sarah and Meghan tips for podcasting success and explains why a career is nothing more than a bunch of hoses in a trough. Get early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING

Embattled Harvard president Claudine Gay is out. Who has the goods to replace her? And what are those goods, anyway?  Then, why are business influencer bros telling lonely men to “wife up?” Does a traditional wife get you the best possible ROI? Or is the trad trend simply a new genre of porn? Plus, Meghan spots her 18-year-old self on YouTube! RELEVANT LINKSClaudine Gay's Op-Ed for the New York Times.Kat Rosenfeld's piece about Trad Wives on TikTok for Reason Magazine.Meghan's piece about Mary McCarthy, The Group, and spotting her 18-year-old self on YouTube.Get early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comIs the White House holiday video a Blank Panther psyop? Are “former progressive friends” who inch slightly to the center victims of the right-wing cult? And what does The Nutcracker have to do with Christmas anyway? Plus: Meghan comes clean about her tap dancing history.RELEVANT LINKSDorrance Dance's Nutcracker at the White House.What's Driving Former Progressives to the Right?Get early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit aspecialplace.substack.comLegendary advice coach, blogger, and Special Place VIP is back to answer more listener questions. For instance, how do you get your neighbor to stop chewing your ear off? What qualifies as a midlife crisis? How can you move past regret? She also answers some questions about herself. For instance, why did she once hire a matchmaker and what were her requirements for a mate? Why is she sleeping on the living room floor of her fancy apartment? And why does her dog eat butter? (Answer pending.)Get early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING

This week, the girlx hash it out about transhumanism and reproductive technology. Does this new technology trans away our humanity? Or is it doing the lord's work without bothering any lords? Should surrogacy be banned? Or should is one of those “don't knock it 'til you've tried it” kind of things? Finally, the co-hostessx talk about memory and how different people experience it. Or something like that. They can't remember most of that conversation.Get early access and bonus episodes? Upgrade your subscription.HOUSEKEEPING