Taylor Lorenz’s Power User Are kindness influencers bad?
9 snips
Jul 2, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Brad Podray, also known as Scumbag Dad, shares his comedic take on the world of kindness influencers, critiquing the performative nature of their charitable acts. He delves into the ethical quandaries of filming vulnerable people without their consent and questions the authenticity of kindness in viral videos. Through anecdotes, he highlights the difference between genuine generosity and content-driven gestures, urging influencers to consider the deeper impact of their actions on marginalized communities.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Hidden Cameras Exploit Vulnerable
- Kindness influencer content often hides cameras and uses deception to capture vulnerable people's reactions.
- This creates non-consensual performances exploiting people for cheap views and engagement on platforms like TikTok.
Subject Revealed Embarrassment
- Brad Podray contacted a woman featured in a viral kindness influencer video and found she was embarrassed and upset.
- She did not consent to being posted and refused further online attention despite receiving money.
Fans Mistake Support for Activism
- Fans of kindness influencers often form parasocial bonds, thinking liking/share equals kindness participation.
- This creates a false sense of activism while ignoring ethical issues and exploitation behind videos.
