The Daily Former

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we get an intimate look at the life behind our podcast host, Jamie. What drew him into the ideology, what kept him in, and what eventually made him choose to leave. Let's get into this special episode.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailIn the second half of our interview with Alec, we discuss his profound transformation from a radical youth. Our guest opens up about his journey from radicalization through online groups to his pivotal realization after the Charlottesville rally. He shares the challenges of confronting his past, the impact of therapy, and how his experiences now shape his work in tech and social justice. Let's get into it!www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we discuss the 4Chan to white supremacist pipeline with someone who has made a profound transformation from his radical past. Alec opens up about his journey from radicalization through online groups to his pivotal realization after the Charlottesville rally. He shares the challenges of confronting his past, the impact of therapy, and how his experiences now shape his work in tech and social justice. Let's get into it!www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThis Daily Dose explores the reflexive self-protection people use when confronted with the implications of their own beliefs: “Nope. Not me. I didn’t say that. I never went that far. I’m not an extremist.”  Jamie examines how individuals distance themselves from the very ideas they defend, and what that reveals about fear, accountability, and the human need to remain “reasonable” in their own eyes.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThe ideology's decentralization and the ensuing chaos are bewildering to view from the outside looking in... how must it feel if you're in it? www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailTwo mothers sit across from each other, bound by an experience neither ever expected: raising children who became involved in extremism and the long, uncertain road of helping them leave. The conversation is candid and unvarnished, and shares a very real look at how families grapple with loved ones involved in the movement. Let's get into it...www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 5! In this episode, we explore the shift in awareness required to move beyond hate-fueled ideologies. He shares insights on how to break free from destructive patterns and embrace a more compassionate, fulfilling way of living. Let’s dive in!www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailExposure without consent. This Daily Dose explores the real-world consequences of doxxing and how exposing someone’s private information can lead to harassment, fear, and lasting trauma. We unpack why fear and public shaming don’t dismantle hate-fueled groups, and why lasting change comes from dialogue and safe spaces, not intimidation.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailDidn't get the picture 'cause the flash was off?You're in the right place for this season's finale episode! Jamie celebrates a lineup of incredible guests and candid conversations, highlighting the insights, stories, and moments that made this season unforgettable and drew us into the work-- and the lives of those who have gotten themselves out and the support systems that keep them out. Let's get into it...www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailMany formers carry guilt about their past, about the ideas they repeated, the spaces they helped normalize, and the ways that they contributed to hate-fueled spaces, directly and indirectly. This is where compassion comes in, not as an excuse, not as letting yourself off the hook. But as a way to sit with that responsibility, without shutting down. Compassion for others and compassion for yourself is what often makes accountability possible in the first place. In this Daily Dose, Jamie speaks with Burrell about leading with compassion.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailFrom the frontlines of hate to a life of healing, Corey’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. In this episode, he opens up about his rise within a violent skinhead group, his struggles with addiction, and the hard-won freedom he found from hate. Corey’s story is a powerful exploration of the human need for belonging—and how he discovered it not in violence, but in family, community, and helping others break free from the same destructive patterns. Let's get into it...www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, our guest Meadhbh speaks on the Incel ideology, which is part of a broader online network of anti-feminist and male-supremacist groups called the "manosphere". Members typically blame women, society, and "genetics" for their situation and express a deep-seated sense of victimhood and anger. Meadhbh is a researcher and author who specializes in the "manosphere". She has written a book titled Blackpilled: Masculinity, Media and Incels, which analyzes the "blackpill" ideology. If you are interested in exploring this topic further, check out Blackpilled www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailContent Warning: This episode contains discussions about experiences of sexual assault, sexual abuse, suicide, torture, and child abuse. Listener discretion is strongly advised. In this episode, we have a truly inspiring guest—a Former who has faced the darkness of abuse, coercion, and being engaged in hate-fueled violence, and who has navigated out by listening to their inner compass. Through this journey of healing, our guest emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and strength. This is a story of hope, empowerment, and the incredible human capacity to rebuild and flourish.Take a deep breath, get comfortable, and join us as we embark on this journey together.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThe words we choose can either open space for understanding or completely shut down a conversation. Last week, I was invited to be a guest on the Martial Maze podcast, hosted by Israel Lopez Sensei. In this first episode of season four, we asked Israel to continue the discussion on verbal Judo and tactical speech. Let's get into it. www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThe final episode of this three-part mini-series examines women's roles in the movement. We explore the consequences of gendered roles within the ideology and how rigid roles and polarized identities can perpetuate inequality, fuel division, and distort our sense of self and community. We reflect on the personal costs of these extremes, examine the social and cultural forces that perpetuate them, and consider pathways out of hate-fueled violence and the ideologies that perpetuate these rigid roles. Let's go ahead and get into it. www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailWhy does the movement center on misogyny and misogynistic ideals? How do those beliefs shape our experiences and our identities, both in and beyond the movement?This is the TDF Summer Mini-Series: Gendered Extremes.We’re bringing you a deep dive into these questions from our own perspectives, lived experiences, and positionalities. Welcome to Episode Two. Let’s get into it.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a movement pushes people to the very edges of the gender spectrum? How do those extremes shape our experiences and our identities?This is the TDF Summer Mini-Series: Gendered Extremes. We’re bringing you a deep dive into these questions from our own perspectives, lived experiences, and positionalities. Welcome to Episode One, let’s get into it.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailAngela wraps up Season 3 with a review of the season's themes, a nugget of information about the summer mini-series, and an ask for Life After Hate.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailWhat is your relationship with anger today? Let's talk therapists and how to find the kind that will be most beneficial to your journey as a former. Have we ever received advice as formers? Um, yeah, about that. Join the TDF team for Episode #4 of Ask a Former!www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailActivation warning: This episode mentions suicide ideation, suicide, and death. If you or someone you know is struggling, please get in touch with the 988 Lifeline for free 24/7 confidential support.Lauren and Angela, both former members of the violent far-right, became friends when Lauren contacted Life After Hate around 2017. Their friendship is based on a shared sense of (dark, adolescent) humor, commitment to self-care, and more. In Season 3, Episode 6, they share an intimate conversation answering the same questions TDF asks the other Season 3 guests. Will the same themes emerge? www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Ask a Former, the team answers questions submitted by a senior graduate student working on a thesis. The theme of this one is how tattoos shape identity within hate groups and the challenges faced during and after exit. Interestingly, four out of five of the team have or had violent far-right-related tattoos. Why is that significant and what can we learn from it? The team touches on tattoos, growing beyond the symbols of the violent far-right, and how former extremists transform their mistakes into teachable moments for others who exit violent extremism.  Have a question? Text us here, DM us on social, email us at [email protected], get in our discord: https://discord.gg/aBWVS6gggpStay curious, friends.A special request from a co-founder of Life After Hate: During these times of uncertainty, we want to do anything we can to contribute to solutions, support targeted communities, and protect our loved ones. If you are in a position to do so, please consider supporting the work we do at Life After Hate. We can't do this work alone. It takes a community to build a safer society.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailLiz talks to Angela and Lauren about her journey into, and out of, violent extremism.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailErnest has never told his story- until now. Ernest was in the White Power movement in the late 90's through early 2000's and he is still thinking about what he can do to make up for it. Ernest talks about his childhood and adolescence, not quite finding his place and trying on different hats until the movement convinces him to try that too. By the end of it, Ernest is mouthing off to law enforcement and studying to become a priest for a religion he doesn't even believe in. What got him leave? What does he plan to do now? Tune in to find out!www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailIn this session, we answer the questions:1. What organizations do you support?2. What kept you in the movement?3. What do you tell someone who is afraid of being dox'd?4. How do you know you're a Former?5. What are the physical traits of the current iterations of the movement?6. What's with all the gay stuff?7. How has your story evolved over time?8. How do you respond when people tell you that they had a bad time and didn't become a Nazi over it?...and more!Have a question? Text us here, DM us on social, email us at [email protected], get in our discord: https://discord.gg/aBWVS6gggpStay curious, friends.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailSam and Jamie talk to Tyler about his childhood as the son of a tough guy and self-destructive woman, how his family was surprisingly supportive of his transition, although it had conditions. We discuss how terror cells don't always live in the dark corners of the internet, and how maybe not every book deserves a press tour. www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailAngela and Brad learn when the veil started to lift for Jeff, how he got out, and what he's doing now.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailIn this session, we answer the questions:1. Do you still listen to the music you listened to in the movement?2. Are there any clothes or visuals you wish you could still wear?3. Is there anything you've noticed that makes people want to leave the movement?4. Why won't "anti-whites" debate "pro-whites" publicly? 5. Are you proud of anything you've done in the movement?Have a question? Text us here, DM us on social, email us at [email protected], get in our discord: https://discord.gg/aBWVS6gggpStay curious, friends.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailAngela and Brad sit down with Jeff, beginning a candid, former-to-former conversation about vulnerability, feelings, realizations, and breaking free from the violent far-right. Jeff's childhood, upbringing, and early family life are typical, without extremes or many of the things we usually associate with becoming radicalized. Jeff shares his less-than-common experience of seeking out the violent far-right on his own as a teenager, beginning a long stint–nearly three decades–of involvement in one of the most blistering neo-Natzy groups around. The formers share hard-earned wisdom, experiences, and the realities they wish others knew. You don’t want to miss the illuminating conversation had in part one, episode 2 of The Daily Former.DISCORD: https://discord.gg/ukXnASqC2Cwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailWe welcome Frank, a former skinhead whose journey from hate to healing is both intense and inspiring. Raised in a tough environment in South Philadelphia, Frank was drawn into the skinhead movement at a young age. His transformation out of hate began while in prison, where he was exposed to diverse backgrounds and began questioning his racist beliefs. The turning point came after the Oklahoma City bombing, leading him to leave the movement and commit to anti-racism. Now an advocate for the Black Lives Matter movement and exploring his Jewish heritage, Frank shares his powerful story of redemption and his ongoing work to fight hate. Tune in to hear how his past has shaped his mission to create a more inclusive world.Discord: https://discord.gg/ukXnASqC2Cwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan Mail2017's Shot Caller isn't the most obvious pick for a season finale but, we've shown many different stories and how violent extremism's insidious nature can infect anyone. Clint joins the conversation and pretty much sends us to school about gangs, prison politics, the nature of copaganda, and shared some strong opinions about Jon Bernthal(that we kindly edited out... mostly). Enjoy!DISCORD: https://discord.gg/58VhP8ShPpwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailAmerican History X is loved and hated by many people- some think it's too sappy, others think it's too brutal. But what do people who actually lived that life think? Join the Formers as we pick Frank Meeink's brain about what it's like to "allegedly" inspire such a critical film.DISCORD: https://discord.gg/4t6ThRwSCYwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan Mail1988's Mississippi Burning is discussed. DISCORD: https://discord.gg/4t6ThRwSCYwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailJojo Rabbit is discussed.CW: This episode contains discussion of death, wartime violence, murder, life is squalor, among other things. Feel free to pass on this!DISCORD: https://discord.gg/XWwajNa6www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailCW: This film depicts scenes of racial violence, medical emergencies, questionable sexual scenarios, racist language, bad ideas, unaliving, etc. Please feel free to skip this!Discord: https://discord.gg/4t6ThRwSCYwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailCW: This series deals with dark themes, including, cult-like behavior, racial violence, sexual violence, substance abuse, trauma, early death, loss of at least one parent, etc. Please feel free to skip this if you are not in a good place to hear discussions about these things.2007's This Is England is discussed.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThe film Imperium, starring Daniel Radcliffe, is discussed.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailFROM OUR LOVELY INTERN: The Zone of Interest, directed by Jonathan Glazer and based on Martin Amis’s novel, explores extremism within Nazi Germany during the Holocaust. The film examines the lives of Rudolf Höss and his family, depicting them as ordinary people deeply entrenched in Nazi ideology. By contrasting their mundane domestic life with the horrors of Auschwitz, the film highlights how extremist views became normalized. Its minimalistic cinematography and understated soundtrack evoke a sense of detachment, reflecting the moral apathy that allowed such atrocities to occur. The film avoids passing judgment, instead challenging viewers to confront the ethical complexities of complicity. Overall, The Zone of Interest is a thought-provoking exploration of moral responsibility and the normalization of evil, urging introspection on the dangers of ideological extremism.DISCORD: https://discord.gg/4t6ThRwSCYwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailFROM OUR LOVELY INTERN: BlacKkKlansman is a powerful exploration of racism and extremism in America, inspired by the true story of Ron Stallworth, a black detective who infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan in the 1970s. Spike Lee’s adaptation of Stallworth’s memoir highlights the persistent fight against racism and white supremacy, particularly in the U.S. The film’s authenticity is evident in its meticulous research and historical accuracy, bringing a dark chapter of American history to life. The film resonated deeply with me, offering a sobering reflection on the complexities of bigotry. Despite my familiarity with the historical context, the movie served as a stark reminder of the far-right’s tactics and ideologies. Overall, BlacKkKlansman is a poignant reminder of America’s enduring legacy of racism and the ongoing fight for justice, urging audiences to confront uncomfortable truths and take action against oppression.DISCORD:https://discord.gg/xx3s5xfXhYwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThis discussion is about the term NeverMore, and if one is to be a Former for the rest of their life.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailPat Riccards wrote some words. We will be discussing tomorrow.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThis conversation is about the mindset of a former, overcoming self-hatred, working for George Soros, and what it means to be free.DISCORD INVITE: https://discord.gg/4t6ThRwSCYwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailA conversation about deciding if speaking out is the right thing to do, and how to navigate that decision.DISCORD INVITE: https://discord.gg/58VhP8ShPpwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThis episode is about forgiving yourself, owning your past without pre-writing your future, and the reality of what your beliefs cost.DISCORD INVITE: https://discord.gg/XZZEz7AZsxIf you want support, help, positive reinforcement, or anything else- join the Discord or email us at: [email protected] what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailA conversation about dating after leaving the movement. Also discussed: long term relationships, internalized bigotry we still hold, and stories of dating gone wrong.DISCORD INVITE:https://discord.gg/93kcxRgHCAwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThis conversation is about a recall vote for Judd Blevins in Enid, Oklahoma, and what it could do for the future of "identitarians".For more insight: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/immigration/white-nationalist-leader-plotting-take-over-gop-n920826DISCORD:https://discord.gg/9u3uwBkH6Cwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailMaking friends is hard, especially when you and your life get flipped upside down. This episode is. discussion about how we sometimes go back to our friends from before, how sometimes our old friends end up being bad for us, and how to exist in new spaces.DISCORD: https://discord.gg/9u3uwBkH6Cwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThe Formers talk about how to set boundaries, how and when to maintain them, and when negotiating your limits is actually just accepting bad behavior.Discord: https://discord.gg/NzjE3fSrhEThinking about leaving? Cool. Drop us a line.thedailyformer@lifeafterhate.orgwww.thedailyformer.comwww.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailLink to Discord: https://discord.gg/W8s4p4e4VvIf the link is expired, DM us on social or email [email protected] always, thank you so much for listening and see you there!www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThis conversation is about the ways the far-right uses deflections to keep attention away from their schemes.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here  

Send us Fan MailThe Formers talk about job-hunting and going back to school after leaving the movement. Rejection, discretion about the past, and taking on too much are touched on.www.thedailyformer.comLike what you're hearing? Donate here