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May 30, 2025 124 mins
Your favorite psychologists, Dr. John Gartner and Dr. Harry Segal, return after a forced hiatus (watch the opening of the show for details) to dissect the growing pushback from the courts against Trump’s tariffs and his attacks on Harvard—while also diving into revelations surrounding the Biden mental health cover-up. Joining them this week is Joe Caiazzo, a seasoned political strategist and partner at 1788 Media, who brings his expert perspective to the conversation. Be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts: Our site Subscribe on iTunes Subscribe on Spotify Subscribe on Amazon Music Subscribe on iHeartRadio In their latest session, Dr. Gartner and Dr. Segal examine the chaotic nature of Trump’s policies, emphasizing how his psychological profile—marked by malignant narcissism and cognitive decline—directly fuels his erratic governance. The duo makes a compelling case that Trump’s impulse-driven decision-making and abuse of executive power are fundamental to understanding his failed attempts to impose extreme tariffs and retaliate against institutions like Harvard. The judiciary has emerged as a crucial check against Trump’s overreach, as courts increasingly block his illegal actions. Dr. Segal highlights key legal victories, such as the halt of Trump’s baseless tariffs and the judicial rebuke of his administration’s efforts to restrict Harvard’s enrollment of international students. These rulings are pivotal in safeguarding constitutional principles and pushing back against executive authoritarianism. Meanwhile, the podcast pivots toward a hard-hitting moment of self-examination, as Dr. Gartner reflects on the newly uncovered truths about President Biden’s cognitive struggles. Acknowledging their initial misjudgments, the hosts emphasize the necessity of transparency in leadership and discuss how the Biden administration’s mismanagement of his decline has eroded public trust and weakened democratic integrity. Dr. Gartner stresses that owning up to analytical mistakes is essential for providing a more accurate political lens moving forward. Political strategist Joe Caiazzo deepens the discussion with his insider take on the need for generational change within the Democratic Party. He underscores the importance of meeting voters where they are, broadening the party’s coalition, and prioritizing outreach that resonates with working-class Americans. Caiazzo argues that real engagement—not distant rhetoric—is key to revitalizing Democratic momentum. As the conversation intensifies, the psychologists connect political strategy with psychological insight, illustrating how cognitive tendencies shape leadership behavior. Dr. Segal and Dr. Gartner reveal how psychology not only explains political motivations but also serves as a powerful tool for anticipating and countering authoritarian tactics. The episode concludes with a powerful call to action: resist authoritarianism, stay vigilant, and engage actively in preserving democratic values. Dr. Gartner and Dr. Segal emphasize that knowledge, awareness, and psychological insight remain vital weapons against political chaos. Stay tuned as Shrinking Trump continues to tackle the intersection of psychology and politics—providing deep, necessary analysis in this defining era. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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