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The Cult of MAGA Wives

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Sep 2, 2025

Guest

E. Jean Carroll

E. Jean Carroll, a renowned journalist and advice columnist who famously took Donald Trump to court, dives into the peculiar world of MAGA Wives. She discusses how these women embody a loyalty that's often at odds with their own rights. From their fervent support of Trump amidst his legal woes to the humorous complexities of femininity within a patriarchal framework, the conversation explores the unique sisterhood of conservative women. Carroll sheds light on how humor can critique political absurdities while advocating for a shift in traditional gender roles.

56:41

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Episode notes

insights

INSIGHT

Power Through Proximity

MAGA wives embody a form of womanhood that finds power through proximity to powerful men.
That proximity substitutes for independent political or economic empowerment.

insights

INSIGHT

Belonging As Political Currency

MAGA wife culture offers identity, belonging, and order in chaotic times.
That draws people toward authoritarian figures promising restoration and protection.

insights

INSIGHT

Cult Mechanics At Play

MAGA wife movement meets many cult checkboxes: charismatic leader, us-vs-them, thought-terminating clichés, and exit costs.
Their rituals and sunk costs make leaving socially and emotionally costly.

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Power, Gender, and the MAGA Wives

01:42 • 22min

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Exploring Manipulation and Advertisements in Pop Culture

23:31 • 4min

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Femininity and Politics in the Trump Era

27:02 • 9min

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The Power of Humor in Political Critique

36:13 • 5min

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Feminine Dynamics in Conservative Contexts

41:26 • 11min

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Examining the Coercive Dynamics of MAGA Wives

52:20 • 6min

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Not My Type

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Safiya Umoja Noble

Apryl Williams' 'Not My Type' delves into the pervasive issue of racial discrimination embedded within online dating platforms. Drawing from extensive interviews with over 100 dating app users, the book exposes how algorithms often perpetuate and amplify existing societal biases. It uncovers the ways in which race-based preferences are automated, leading to unequal opportunities and experiences for users from marginalized groups. The book sheds light on the complex interplay between technology, race, and intimacy in the digital age, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness and accountability in the design and implementation of dating algorithms. Ultimately, Williams challenges the notion of 'preference' as a neutral concept, revealing its deep roots in historical and systemic racism.

They've got devotion in their eyes, American flag throw pillows on their couches, and a framed photo of Donald Trump in their prayer corner. This week, Amanda and Chelsea are joined by iconic advice columnist, author, and certified legend E. Jean Carroll (@ejeancarroll1), to unpack the wildly culty world of MAGA Wives: the loyal ladies of the far-right who will defend their orange king until the bitter, gold-plated end. From standing by their man (even when he’s been indicted four times) to reposting QAnon memes between Bible verses, MAGA wives operate like a sisterhood of true believers. Why do so many of them double down on submission and conspiracy as lifestyle brands? What do they get out of aligning themselves with an ideology that, let’s be real, doesn’t seem to like women very much? Grab your pearls and your Mar-a-Lago merch...we’re diving into the red-lipped, red-pilled cult of conservative wifedom. 💋🇺🇸🍊

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