

250: Gaslighting in Media & Culture: From Jonah Hill to Pop Songs to the White House
This episode explores the unsettling world of gaslighting in media, culture, politics, and personal relationships. White House briefings and actor Jonah Hill's leaked texts illustrate how manipulation and control shape narratives. We discuss a recent press briefing, allegations and irresponsible reporting surrounding a controversial incident. Additionally, we discuss damaging texts leaked by Jonah Hill's ex-girlfriend, which led to a viral revenge plot on social media. The topic of gaslighting will also be covered in terms of popular songs and in the political sphere.
You will learn how to recognize and combat gaslighting in your own life. Whether in personal or professional relationships, learn how to quell the desire to put someone on social media blast. Even though it is cathartic, it can also be very damaging to your reputation.
Mentioned in this episode:
- Molly's TikTok about Jonah Hill and Sarah Brady Part 1.
- Molly's TikTok about Jonah Hill and Sarah Brady Part 2.
- Gaslighting as a manipulation tactic
- Characteristics and motives of gaslighters
- Introduction to the concept of gaslighting and its impact on victims
- Addressing the controversy involving actor Jonah Hill's texts
- Connection between Olivia Rodrigo's song "Vampire" and gaslighting
- Messaging challenges related to cocaine in the White House
- Examples of gaslighting and manipulation in relationships
- Importance of not engaging in viral revenge
- Gaslighting in personal and professional relationships
- Social media discourse on the motives behind publicizing personal texts and warning others about abusive behavior.
The media tool I use to track stories, monitor coverage, and help clients get their message in the right hands. Click here to learn more.
Want More Behind the Breakdown?
Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, exclusive member chats, weekly lives, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It's the insider’s hub for communicators who want strategy with spine—and a little side-eye where it counts.
Follow Molly → @MollyMcPherson
Subscribe to PR Breakdown on Substack → prbreakdown.media
Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting.
This podcast is supported by Muck Rack, the PR management platform I use to monitor media coverage, track journalist activity, and inform high-stakes strategy with real-time data. Click here to try Muck Rack for yourself.
Follow & Connect with Molly: