The Fall of Phoenix Jones
This feature explores the rise and fall of Phoenix Jones, Guardian of Seattle. An ambitious individual armed with an expensive bullet-proof suit, pepper spray and other mild offensive weapons. Тhe aspiring hero would walk the streets at night looking for any disturbance he could find and assist with. He began the practice in 2010, foiling car hijackings, breaking up street fights, and even going as far as attempting to intimidate drug dealers.
He even managed to inspire others to join him on patrol. He inspired Purple Rain, who fought to spread awareness about domestic abuse, Midnight jack, and Red Dragon. His group expanded to about ten members, who called themselves the Rain City Superhero Movement.
In his attempts, he acquired many injuries and was dissuaded by police and even other individuals who occasionally played costume heroes. He seemed blind to what everyone else could see - over time, he was likely only making situations worse. At the time, he had joined a cadre of costume-wearing individuals across the world who wanted to leave their mark and play their part in crime fighting.
Phoenix Jones did not seem to share their healthy awareness of their limits and their willingness to allow trained law enforcement to be the main call for assistance. His practice of allowing camera crews to follow him around also drew a lot of criticism as he seemed to care more about his own celebrity than the causes he claimed to champion.
He attracted both villains and supporters, attracting a wide range of media attention on news stations, podcasts, audio shows and YouTube channels.
Phoenix Jones was really Benjamin Fodor, a husband, father and occasional professional fighter. He also worked at a daycare that catered to children with special needs. His exploits as a superhero eventually cost him his day job, his wife and he was eventually arrested on drug charges.
Even though his actions were polarizing, even his detractors were surprised by the way everything turned out.
If you are interested in non-traditional takes on community service, then it will be an interesting watch for you.
I went to highschool with this guy. It was a very small private alternative school so although he was a year below me, I had a lot of interaction with him. He had some signs of personality disorder even back then (lied all the time- especially about “beating people up”, delusions of grandeur, etc).
I feel like he probably never was an actual drug dealer on account of I can’t picture anyone who actually sells large amounts of narcotics associating with or selling to him. I do know he would do or say anything to impress others so I can imagine him acquiring small amounts of drugs to impress under cover cop friends.
Honestly, I hope he gets the help he needs and one day can be happy being himself and live an authentic life instead of trying to be someone or something he’s not forever.
A simple guy with a simple idea that simply didn't work out
Before moralizing over his behaviour, he likeli has a common personality disorder.
Personalty disorders are rife, but never talked about because they are the result of the living in a psychotic society.
1. Dramatic Negative Emotions (High Dramas & Melt-Downs)
2. Dramatic “Positive” Emotions (Superficial Charm & Seduction)
3. Constant Need for Attention
A main reason for the overly dramatic behavior (both negative and “positive”) of the histrionic narcissist is the insatiable desire for attention and approval. However, behind this craving for “specialness” is often a fragile self-esteem with serious attachment, trust, and security issues. In relationships and in life situations, some histrionic narcissists enact “tests” to see whether people are willing to “take the extra-step” to serve, placate, or rescue them, thus affirming their brittle self-worth.
Unfortunately, the problem with constantly seeking validation from the outside is that one will never be truly happy with oneself on the inside. For the histrionic narcissist, the temporary satisfaction from external approval never lasts, and it’s never enough.
4. Self-Absorbed Egocentrism & Lack of Empathy
5. Boundary Violation & Manipulation
6. May be Unrealistic & Unreliable
The desire for constant stimulation, instant gratification, and the tendency to be bored easily means some histrionic narcissists are unstable in their relationships, and unreliable in their commitments. Certain histrionic narcissists are prone to taking unreasonable risks, affecting their own and others’ well-being.
The first time I heard about phoenix jones was in Ron Johnsons' book on Audible. It was nice getting an update (much has happened since then)and actually getting to see everything. Man, that really took a turn. Probably not the last you will see of this guy... very nice presentation. Keep them comming.