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The InSight Out Show | Ep. 168 | A Principal Used Hypnosis on Students. Three Later Died. Was There a Connection?
News & Culture Episode 168 • 19th February 2026 • InSight Out • Devin Almonte
00:00:00 00:14:31

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A high school principal was hypnotizing students.

Not as part of a psychology program. Not as a licensed clinician.

This episode looks at the story featured on "The Curious Case Of"... about Dr. George Kenney, who conducted hypnosis sessions with more than 70 students over several years.

Some parents signed off. Some students said it helped their grades and performance. Others, not so much.

In 2011, three students who had participated in private sessions died within weeks of each other. Two deaths were ruled suicides. One was a fatal car crash. Dr. Kenney later pleaded no contest and permanently lost his teaching certificate.

Investigators did not establish that hypnosis caused the deaths. But the situation leaves people asking questions.

Why was a school leader practicing hypnosis at all? Where were the boundaries?

And how should Christians think about willingly handing someone influence over their minds?

Scripture (NIV):

1 Peter 5:8

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

This episode reflects on authority, responsibility, and what it means to stay sober-minded in a culture that often encourages the opposite.

💬 Want to talk about it more?

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Are you intentional about who you allow that access?

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🎥 Referenced Clips and 📰 Articles (used under fair use for commentary & teaching):

Dr. George Kenney Case Interview Clip – Watch

Florida Schools Settle With Parents of Three Teens After Hypnosis Sessions | via NBC News – Read

Dr. George Kenney and the Teen Hypnosis Deaths: What to Know | via People – Read

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