Shrinking Trump

Really American Media
Shrinking Trump

Psychologists John Gartner, Harry Segal, and their expert guests, conduct weekly sessions analyzing the psyche of Donald Trump, documenting his cognitive decline and plumbing the depths of his malignant narcissism. Dr. Gartner is a former part-time assistant professor of psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University Medical School and the founder of Duty To Warn, an association of mental health professionals warning about Trump and Trump-ism. Dr. Segal is a senior lecturer in psychology at Cornell University.

  1. Navigating the Shadows: Finding Balance in Uncertain Times

    1 DAY AGO

    Navigating the Shadows: Finding Balance in Uncertain Times

    Dr. John Gartner and Harry Segal discuss Kash Patel's plan for terror at home and treason abroad. Their guest, Rev. Konrad Ryushin Marchaj, a psychiatrist and Zen monk, helps us find sanity and humanity while accepting "radical impermanence."  Make sure you join us here on Patreon to support our work and gain access to exclusive perks: patreon.com/ReallyAmericanMedia Our site: https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/shrinking-trump  Subscribe on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrinking-trump/id1745797271 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4xuuqHxzruLEsQXtTuJjP4 Subscribe on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a101a15a-8b18-49c8-b556-c201aece30ee/shrinking-trump Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shrinking-trump-175213669/ In this all-new episode of Shrinking Trump, Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Siegel unpack the prevailing unease in America amidst Trump's looming second term. Joined by remarkable guest Rev. Konrad Ryushin Marchaj, we’ll discuss the intersecting paths of politics, psychology, and spirituality. To kick things off, Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel revisit their reasoning for starting this show, which was to bring attention to Trump's cognitive and psychological decline. In today's shifting landscape, their focus has evolved to include the broader implications of a new Trump presidency.  And now, their mission is more clear than ever before: guiding our listeners through these unprecedented times with empathy and clarity. Recent headlines, like those about Trump's unhinged nominees, have left many Americans with a growing sense of dread and fear. To combat this anxiety, Konrad introduces the concept of radical impermanence, which embraces change and nurtures a consciousness that thrives amid uncertainty. Drawing insights from Buddhism, he encourages our listeners to fully engage in life’s constant flux. The Reverend also unveils some practical meditative and spiritual practices, and shares some personal stories as a testament to how mindfulness can serve as a powerful anchor amidst any uncertainty. Dr. Siegel and Dr. Gartner also peel back the layers of radical acceptance, and invite our audience to join us for this transformative journey of awakening and adaptability, as we promote the pursuit of inner peace and balance.  We’ll see you next week, as our hosts continue to guide us through these unprecedented times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 43m
  2. Coping With Fear Of Tyranny

    NOV 22

    Coping With Fear Of Tyranny

    In this brand new session with the Doctors, along with special guest Joe Walsh, our hosts dive deep into the American post-election psychological landscape.  Make sure you join us here on Patreon to support our work and gain access to exclusive perks: patreon.com/ReallyAmericanMedia Our site: https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/shrinking-trump  Subscribe on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrinking-trump/id1745797271 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4xuuqHxzruLEsQXtTuJjP4 Subscribe on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a101a15a-8b18-49c8-b556-c201aece30ee/shrinking-trump Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shrinking-trump-175213669/ This episode, our 30th, marks a significant milestone for our podcast’s journey through America's political and psychological turmoil. Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel recount the origins of Shrinking Trump, which initially focused on Donald’s cognitive decline and psychological disorders. Now, they have shifted their focus to understanding how Trump's new term affects the nation’s psyche and what it means for the future. Former Congressman and long-time Trump critic Joe Walsh joins the show to share his insights into what has transpired and what might lie ahead. Walsh touches upon Trump's potential for deep-seated vendettas against democratic institutions and the personal nature of his political vendettas. He reassures listeners that even though Trump will try to consolidate power, the structures within American democracy are stronger than most people think. Joe also stresses the urgency for resistance and remaining vigilant against the erosion of our democracy.  You’ll hear about some important coping mechanisms to deal with the feelings of anxiety, dread, and powerlessness in the face of Trump's renewed power. Our hosts stress the importance of finding solace in personal relationships, developing a support system, and taking the time to nurture your mental health as vital strategies to brace for the uncertainty ahead. And Dr. Gartner announces he is writing an exciting new book about his exploration of psilocybin therapy, and calls for innovative approaches to mental well-being, and enlightenment during dark times.  Dr. Gartner, Dr. Siegel, and Joe implore our listeners to remain committed to democracy and their own mental health. As we embark on this new chapter, our hosts reaffirm their dedication to guiding folks through unprecedented times with clarity, empathy, and hope. Join them in the next episode as they continue to delve into the America’s political and psychological landscape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 57m
  3. Post-Election Psychological Landscape: Coping with Grief, and The Resistance Rises

    NOV 15

    Post-Election Psychological Landscape: Coping with Grief, and The Resistance Rises

    In this all-new session, Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Siegel enlighten us with a raw discussion about the current state of America, following last week’s shocking election results. Along with our guest, renowned psychologist Dr. Drew Weston, we’ll discuss the damaging implications of Trump’s bizarre cabinet picks and look at how it reflects a broader effort by Donald to dismantle our institutions. Make sure you join us here on Patreon to support our work and gain access to exclusive perks: patreon.com/ReallyAmericanMedia Our site: https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/shrinking-trump  Subscribe on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrinking-trump/id1745797271 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4xuuqHxzruLEsQXtTuJjP4 Subscribe on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a101a15a-8b18-49c8-b556-c201aece30ee/shrinking-trump Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shrinking-trump-175213669/ This 29th episode of Shrinking Trump marks a crucial moment in addressing the collective unease felt nationwide. We’ll open the show with a reflection on the core psychological concerns that inspired this podcast series: Donald Trump's apparent cognitive decline and malignant narcissism. Dr’s. Gartner and Siegel recap the importance of recognizing how Trump’s dementia is intertwined with a pathological narcissism—a combination that leaves no room for empathy, morality, or humility.  Our guest Dr. Weston provides an unmatched expert perspective on the current political climate, and emphasizes the need for understanding the systemic issues that led to our current situation. Dr.’s Gartner and Siegel stress the potential for radical acceptance—a psychological term for facing reality as it is, without denying or fighting against it. And together, they urge our listeners to remain informed and engaged, but also to maintain a balance in their lives, nurture their mental health, and find moments of joy wherever possible. We’ll share feedback from our viewers and listeners from across the country, revealing a nation dealing with fear, grief, and an overpowering sense of loss. We’ll also draw parallels to the therapeutic approaches for trauma, where naming and acknowledging emotions is a key step in healing. Our hosts also introduce the concept of radical acceptance—a psychological term for facing reality as it is, without denying or fighting against it. And along with Dr. Weston, They encourage our listeners to remain informed and engaged, but also to maintain a balance in their lives, nurture their mental health, and find moments of joy wherever possible. To conclude, the episode extends a call to action, using historical lessons to remind us all that adversity can forge a powerful resilience. In what seems like very dark times, our hosts encourage listeners to band together as symbols of hope, truth, and unwavering commitment to democracy. Join us next week as we continue to uncover the psychological layers of these unprecedented times, helping us all navigate whatever lies ahead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    2h 9m
  4. Post-Election Session: Facing the Unthinkable in Uncertain Times

    NOV 8

    Post-Election Session: Facing the Unthinkable in Uncertain Times

    Welcome to the session of Shrinking Trump we all need after a difficult week, where Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Siegel address the aftermath of a surprising post-election landscape that has left many Americans grappling with uncertainty, fear, and trauma. Along with their guest, John Skrovan, a renowned therapist, they delve into how to process these overwhelming emotions and maintain a realistic sense of hope. Make sure you join us here on Patreon to support our work and gain access to exclusive perks: patreon.com/ReallyAmericanMedia Our site: https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/shrinking-trump  Subscribe on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrinking-trump/id1745797271 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4xuuqHxzruLEsQXtTuJjP4 Subscribe on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a101a15a-8b18-49c8-b556-c201aece30ee/shrinking-trump Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shrinking-trump-175213669/ Dr. Skrovan joins the show to offer a calming perspective on how to navigate this new, hostile world. He advises on reconnecting with one’s surroundings and focusing on present, tangible sources of joy and goodness as a means to counteract despair.  Dr.’s Gartner and Siegel reflect on their own surprise at the election results, having expected different outcomes based on their analyses of the candidates' psychological health. The episode focuses on addressing the collective trauma experienced by listeners, comparable to an emotional earthquake that leaves people in a state of shock and confusion. The hosts emphasize the importance of openly discussing feelings associated with trauma, as bottling them up can hinder the healing process. Dr. Siegel draws parallels with historical and personal experiences of loss to highlight the deep emotional impact of the election results. And In perhaps the most profound moment of the session, we’ll find meaning amidst the chaos, sharing the example of Austrian Psychologist Viktor Frankl’s resilience during dire times. The discussion transcends politics, touching upon the fundamental human need for stability amidst the fear of malevolence and unpredictability. We’ll conclude with a reminder of the power of community and collective action. There are always ways to resist authoritarianism and safeguard democracy. Whether through meditation, activism, or community involvement, the call is to stay engaged, informed, and connected. Be sure to join us next week as we continue to navigate psychological dimensions of America’s ongoing political turmoil. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 31m
  5. On the Edge of History: Shrink-Wrapping the Election Stakes

    NOV 1

    On the Edge of History: Shrink-Wrapping the Election Stakes

    In our 27th episode, hosts Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Siegel are joined by Dr. Stefan Ducat, to dive into all the latest drama in the pivotal pre-election landscape, underlining the dramatic importance of the imminent election on global stability and America’s future.  Make sure you join us here on Patreon to support our work and gain access to exclusive perks: patreon.com/ReallyAmericanMedia Our site: https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/shrinking-trump  Subscribe on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrinking-trump/id1745797271 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4xuuqHxzruLEsQXtTuJjP4 Subscribe on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a101a15a-8b18-49c8-b556-c201aece30ee/shrinking-trump Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shrinking-trump-175213669/ Dr.’s Gartner and Siegel, both seasoned psychologists, began this podcast series to alert the public about Donald Trump's severe personality disorder and worrying signs of cognitive decline. Initially met with a feigned ignorance and neglect by the media, their message is now being recognized as truth, thanks in part to Kamala Harris’s unmatched ability to openly challenge Trump's unhinged behavior. Dr. Stefan Ducat, a political psychologist, author, and a former psychology professor, joins the show to analyze Trump’s recent Madison Square Garden rally, drawing parallels with events from darker chapters in American history. We’ll explore how the dangerous rhetoric unleashed there revealed Trump's true internal narrative, but also mobilized an instant backlash in crucial swing states like Pennsylvania. In this episode, our hosts present a stark dichotomy between Trump's chaotic rallies, where he stokes division and fear, and Kamala’s inspirational leadership, which evokes unity and hope. We’ll also hear about how the election is a moral crossroads for America, discussing the geopolitical and domestic stakes of the results. The upcoming election is not just another political event. It's a referendum on America’s collective psyche—a choice between the chaos of authoritarianism and the promise of renewed democratic ideals. As election day looms, we hope "Shrinking Trump" has served as both a warning sign and a beacon of hope, reminding everyone of what’s at stake, while embracing this moment's potential for profound change.  And don’t worry - we’ll be back again as the saga continues well beyond the ballot box, paving the way for another important journey of political and psychological insight, post-election. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    2h 22m
  6. Kamala Calls out Donald's Decline

    OCT 25

    Kamala Calls out Donald's Decline

    Welcome to another insightful session of Shrinking Trump, where Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Siegel, along with special guest George Conway, dive into alarming new details of Donald Trump's cognitive decline, and the potential repercussions of his victory for American democracy. We are 11 days away from November 5th, 2024, the day which will determine the ultimate fate of our United States. Make sure you join us here on Patreon to support our work and gain access to exclusive perks: patreon.com/ReallyAmericanMedia Our site: https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/shrinking-trump  Subscribe on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrinking-trump/id1745797271 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4xuuqHxzruLEsQXtTuJjP4 Subscribe on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a101a15a-8b18-49c8-b556-c201aece30ee/shrinking-trump Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shrinking-trump-175213669/ In this 26th episode, our focus is squarely on the mounting new evidence of Trump's rapid deterioration. Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel analyze Trump's recent disjointed speech patterns, off-topic rants, and struggle to maintain coherent narratives.  They’ll contrast Donald’s current performances with earlier public appearances, which were far more focused, well-spoken, and calculated. And you’ll discover how Trump's obsessive and erratic behaviors manifest in his public speeches, like with monologues about Arnold Palmer's anatomy. Our good friend George Conway returns to the show to share the latest from his Anti Psychopath PAC's efforts to expose Trump's dangerous tendencies. His movement is dedicated to broadcasting Trump's malignant narcissism and cognitive deteriorations across pivotal swing states. This week, the PAC launched a powerful full-page letter in the New York Times, bearing signatures from over 230 mental health professionals, explicitly warning the public of Trump's dangers.  Our hosts dissect the behavioral contrast between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. Trump's chaotic speech patterns, and unhinged public appearances are starkly juxtaposed with Harris’s consistent clarity, and ethical integrity. As Trump continues to unravel, Harris’s leadership offers a beacon of hope and stability. We’ll explore the long-term socio-political impacts of Trump's rhetoric, which continues to resonate with his base, despite his apparent cognitive decline. Our hosts also discuss the potential paths for the GOP should Kamala Harris win, and emphasize the long-term effects Trump is sure to have on the Republican party.  Be sure to join us next week, for our final episode before The Election.  You won't want to miss it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    2h 21m
  7. Donald's Thought Disorder Has Become Psychotic

    OCT 18

    Donald's Thought Disorder Has Become Psychotic

    In this 25th episode of Shrinking Trump, hosts Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Siegel are joined by psychologist Dr. Drew Westen to take a hard look at new evidence of the alarming cognitive decline of Donald Trump.  Make sure you join us here on Patreon to support our work and gain access to exclusive perks: patreon.com/ReallyAmericanMedia Our site: https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/shrinking-trump  Subscribe on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrinking-trump/id1745797271 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4xuuqHxzruLEsQXtTuJjP4 Subscribe on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a101a15a-8b18-49c8-b556-c201aece30ee/shrinking-trump Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shrinking-trump-175213669/ Westen, an emeritus professor of psychology from Emory University, is known for his work on the psychological aspects of political campaigns and decision-making. Westen shares his brilliant insights on Trump’s cognitive deterioration and discusses Democrats' strategies in dealing with Donald’s behavior. Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel analyze recent indicators of Trump's decline, which have escalated from subtle abnormalities to outright chaos. They dissect his latest episodes of disjointed speech patterns, bizarre off-topic rants, and an inability to maintain a coherent narrative. And we’ll underscore how the media has left a vacuum for independent journalists to fill by refusing to cover these issues properly.  Using specific examples, we’ll assess the degradation of Trump's language skills into simplified syntax and disjointed thoughts—which stands in stark contrast to his previous style. We’ll also take a look back at our hosts' early warnings about Trump, which were largely dismissed by the media and public. They lay out in stunning detail how Donald’s signs of early dementia and severe personality disorder, which experts like John have been calling out since 2016, have now become undeniable. In this episode we’ll also present a strong contrast of Trump’s implosion with Kamala Harris’s composure and competence. Against Trump’s incoherence, Harris has emerged as a beacon of clarity, authenticity, and vigor - giving rise to her support among independent voters. Our hosts discuss the latest legal troubles for Donald, and highlight how his inability to accept the 2020 election results are symptoms of his narcissism and rapid cognitive decline. We’ll talk about all of the recent prominent figures that have acknowledged Trump's dangers, and we’ll explore some of the wild possibilities of the post-election landscape. We only have a couple episodes left before the election, so be sure to join us next week for another highly entertaining and insightful episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    2h 17m
  8. Trump Chickens Out After Kamala Kills It On 60 Minutes

    OCT 11

    Trump Chickens Out After Kamala Kills It On 60 Minutes

    Dr.’s John Gartner and Harry Siegel return for another important session of Shrinking Trump, where they detail more shocking signs of Donald Trump's cognitive decline, and illustrate just how far Trump has drifted from a once sharp and calculated approach. And Majid Padellan, aka Brooklyn Dad, joins the show to tell us about his brand new book, The Bigliest Loser. Make sure you join us here on Patreon to support our work and gain access to exclusive perks: patreon.com/ReallyAmericanMedia Our site: https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/shrinking-trump  Subscribe on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shrinking-trump/id1745797271 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4xuuqHxzruLEsQXtTuJjP4 Subscribe on Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a101a15a-8b18-49c8-b556-c201aece30ee/shrinking-trump Subscribe on iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shrinking-trump-175213669/ Our hosts recap their nine-year journey of demanding media coverage of Trump's brain failures, which culminated this week in a scathing New York Times article, titled Trump’s Speeches, Increasingly Angry and Rambling, Reignite the Question of Age.  Dr.’s Gartner and Siegel examine Trump's erratic behavior at a recent Wisconsin rally, where he made outlandish claims about connecting Elon Musk’s Starlink to aid natural disaster zones. We’ll also look at pointed examples of Trump's apocalyptic language, reflecting his fascist tendencies and deliberate effort to stoke chaos, which could have potentially dangerous effects on society. You’ll hear the latest on how George Conway’s brilliant Anti Psychopath PAC ads are driving Trumpworld bonkers, leading even Bill O’Reilly to issue an angry statement in defense of Donald. Listen in as our hosts draw a sharp comparison between Trump’s cognitive struggles with Kamala’s adeptness and clear, unifying campaign. Analyzing the pivotal role of middle-of-the-road voters, Dr. Gartner and Dr. Siegel emphasize Harris's unprecedented support among independents, suburban voters, and white college graduates, which could all be deciding metrics in the election.  Be sure to join us next week for more insights on the evidence of Trump's cognitive decline, as we continue to unravel the social and political ramifications of Donald’s dangerous behavior.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 42m
4.5
out of 5
825 Ratings

About

Psychologists John Gartner, Harry Segal, and their expert guests, conduct weekly sessions analyzing the psyche of Donald Trump, documenting his cognitive decline and plumbing the depths of his malignant narcissism. Dr. Gartner is a former part-time assistant professor of psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University Medical School and the founder of Duty To Warn, an association of mental health professionals warning about Trump and Trump-ism. Dr. Segal is a senior lecturer in psychology at Cornell University.

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