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Back to Press Play with Madeleine Brand

Press Play with Madeleine Brand

SoCal is known for its wellness culture. Turns out it’s also a hotbed for Q-Anon

Southern California has long been the center of New Age culture in America. Communities embraced techniques such as yoga, reiki, and meditation. But more recently, another belief system has gained popularity in some wellness communities: Q-Anon.

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By Madeleine Brand • Jun 24, 2021 • 11m Listen

Southern California has long been the center of New Age culture in America. Communities embraced techniques such as yoga, reiki, and meditation. But more recently, another belief system has gained popularity in some wellness communities: Q-Anon. That’s the conspiracy theory that the government is run by Satan-worshipping pedophiles and it conspired against former President Donald Trump.

Communities who once shared yoga classes are now sharing misinformation about the Democratic party, the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, and COVID-19 vaccines. It’s led to conflict and confrontation in a space once known for its kumbaya bliss.

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Madeleine Brand

    Host, 'Press Play'

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    Sarah Sweeney

    Vice President of Talk Programming, KCRW

  • KCRW placeholder

    Angie Perrin

    Producer, Press Play

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    Michell Eloy

    Line Editor, Press Play

  • KCRW placeholder

    Laura J. Nelson

    LA Times reporter covering politics and campaign finance

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    Laura Rose Schwartz

    runs an online yoga and fitness studio in Carlsbad

    CultureCaliforniaLos AngelesPoliticsHealth & Wellness
Back to Press Play with Madeleine Brand