Slow Burn Decoder Ring | How “Chicken Soup” Sold Its Soul
Apr 23, 2025
Amanda Chicago Lewis, a journalist known for her insightful reporting on Chicken Soup for the Soul, delves into the brand's fascinating transformation. She reveals how a self-help series designed to uplift millions has morphed into a controversial corporate entity, dabbling in everything from packaged foods to meme stocks. They discuss the series' cultural impact during the '90s, its initial promise of personal growth, and the shift towards a more commercial focus. The conversation touches on the legacy and challenges that have defined the brand's tumultuous journey.
50:49
Amanda's Teen Chicken Soup Experience
- Amanda Chicago Lewis grew up surrounded by the Chicken Soup for the Soul books, especially the teenage edition.
- The stories gave her hope and a positive outlook on adolescent challenges and possibilities.
Chicken Soup's Subtle Philosophy
- Chicken Soup for the Soul became a comforting cultural phenomenon by compiling uplifting, crowdsourced stories.
- It subtly conveyed an underlying philosophy about personal responsibility and positive thinking.
Law of Attraction Explained
- The law of attraction teaches your thoughts create reality; focusing on positive thoughts brings positive outcomes.
- However, it also implies personal blame for negative events, an extreme form of individual agency.
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Intro
00:00 • 2min
The Phenomenon of Chicken Soup for the Soul
02:17 • 2min
The Evolution of Chicken Soup for the Soul: From Comfort to Chaos
04:20 • 4min
The Power of Positive Thinking
08:33 • 10min
The Heart of Chicken Soup: Origins and Impact
18:40 • 7min
The Controversial Legacy of Chicken Soup
25:11 • 5min
The Evolution of Chicken Soup for the Soul: From Motivation to Market Strategy
29:56 • 5min
The Rise and Fall of Chicken Soup for the Soul
35:01 • 12min
The Quest for Positivity and Cultural Mysteries
47:02 • 4min
Chicken Soup for the Soul
Cartoons for Teachers
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Amy Newmark
This book is a compilation of short, inspirational stories and motivational essays gathered by motivational speakers Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. The stories are drawn from their audience members and focus on themes like kindness, love, and compassion. Despite initial rejections by major publishers, the book became a huge success and spawned a series of similar titles. It has been a New York Times bestseller and has sold millions of copies worldwide[3][4].
The stories range from motivational tales of people overcoming challenges to acts of kindness and poems that inspire reflection on life's possibilities. The book aims to warm the reader's heart and remind them of the good things in the world, promoting a sense of love, kindness, and compassion[1].
Think and Grow Rich
Napoleon Hill
Published in 1937, 'Think and Grow Rich' is a seminal work in the self-help genre. The book is the result of over twenty years of research by Napoleon Hill, who studied the habits and achievements of more than 500 successful individuals, including Andrew Carnegie, Thomas Edison, and Henry Ford. Hill distills their wisdom into thirteen principles that, when practiced with persistence and faith, can transform dreams into reality. These principles include the power of desire, faith, specialized knowledge, organized planning, and the role of the subconscious mind. The book emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mental attitude, setting clear and specific goals, and taking consistent action to achieve success. It also explores the concept of the 'Master Mind' alliance and the need to overcome fears and doubts to achieve one's objectives.
Chicken Soup for the Soul
Cartoons for Teachers
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Amy Newmark
This book is a compilation of short, inspirational stories and motivational essays gathered by motivational speakers Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. The stories are drawn from their audience members and focus on themes like kindness, love, and compassion. Despite initial rejections by major publishers, the book became a huge success and spawned a series of similar titles. It has been a New York Times bestseller and has sold millions of copies worldwide[3][4].
The stories range from motivational tales of people overcoming challenges to acts of kindness and poems that inspire reflection on life's possibilities. The book aims to warm the reader's heart and remind them of the good things in the world, promoting a sense of love, kindness, and compassion[1].
Chicken Soup for the Soul
Cartoons for Teachers
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Amy Newmark
This book is a compilation of short, inspirational stories and motivational essays gathered by motivational speakers Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. The stories are drawn from their audience members and focus on themes like kindness, love, and compassion. Despite initial rejections by major publishers, the book became a huge success and spawned a series of similar titles. It has been a New York Times bestseller and has sold millions of copies worldwide[3][4].
The stories range from motivational tales of people overcoming challenges to acts of kindness and poems that inspire reflection on life's possibilities. The book aims to warm the reader's heart and remind them of the good things in the world, promoting a sense of love, kindness, and compassion[1].
Law of Attraction
Jerry Hicks
Esther Hicks
This book explains the Law of Attraction and its application in daily life. It covers the three main laws of the universe: the Law of Attraction, the Law of Deliberate Creation, and the Law of Allowing. The authors provide practical advice on how to focus thoughts and emotions to attract desired outcomes, emphasizing the importance of aligning with one's true self and maintaining a positive vibrational state. The book includes sections on personal guidance systems, the role of emotions, and how to deliberately create one's reality[2][4][5].
Chicken Soup for the Soul : Christmas Magic
Chicken Soup for the Soul : Christmas Magic
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Amy Newmark
Chicken Soup for the Soul: Christmas Magic is a collection of heartwarming and inspirational stories centered around the Christmas season. The book explores themes of family, friendship, giving, and the spirit of Christmas. It offers relatable experiences and provides comfort and joy to readers during the holiday season. The stories often highlight the importance of kindness, generosity, and the magic of Christmas. The book's success demonstrates the series' ability to connect with specific holiday themes.
Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul
Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul
Hansen, Mark Victor, Becker D.V.M., Marty, Kline, Carol, Shojai, Amy D., Canfield, Jack
Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover's Soul is a collection of stories celebrating the unique bond between humans and cats. The book explores themes of companionship, unconditional love, and the joy of sharing life with a feline friend. It offers relatable experiences and provides comfort and encouragement to cat lovers. The stories often highlight the special connection between humans and their cats. The book's success demonstrates the series' ability to connect with specific pet owner demographics.
Chicken Soup for the Soul : Think Positive, Live Happy
Chicken Soup for the Soul : Think Positive, Live Happy
Deborah Norville
Amy Newmark
Chicken soup for the American idol soul
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Chicken Soup for the American Idol Soul is a collection of stories celebrating the dreams and aspirations of aspiring singers. The book explores themes of talent, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. It offers relatable experiences and provides inspiration and encouragement to those pursuing their musical passions. The stories often highlight the importance of hard work, dedication, and believing in oneself. The book's success demonstrates the series' ability to connect with specific entertainment fans.
Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul
Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul is a collection of stories focusing on the experiences of incarcerated individuals. The book explores themes of redemption, hope, and finding meaning in challenging circumstances. It offers relatable experiences and provides comfort and encouragement to those affected by incarceration. The stories often highlight the importance of resilience, forgiveness, and personal growth. The book's success demonstrates the series' ability to address sensitive and often overlooked social issues.
Chicken Soup for the Christian Teenage Soul
Chicken Soup for the Christian Teenage Soul
Hansen, Mark Victor, Kirberger, Kimberly, Aubery, Patty, Deangeles, Barbara
Chicken Soup for the Christian Teenage Soul is a collection of stories specifically aimed at Christian teenagers. The book tackles various aspects of teenage life through a Christian lens, exploring themes of faith, family, and community. It offers relatable experiences and provides comfort and hope to young Christian readers. The stories often focus on overcoming challenges and celebrating Christian values. The book's success demonstrates the series' ability to connect with specific religious demographics.
Chicken Soup for the Entrepreneur's Soul
Chicken Soup for the Entrepreneur's Soul
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Chicken Soup for the Entrepreneur's Soul is a collection of stories focusing on the experiences and challenges of entrepreneurs. The book explores themes of innovation, risk-taking, perseverance, and the rewards of building a business. It offers relatable experiences and provides inspiration and encouragement to aspiring and established entrepreneurs. The stories often highlight the importance of passion, dedication, and resilience. The book's success demonstrates the series' ability to connect with specific professional demographics.
Chicken Soup For The Indian Teenage Soul
Jack Canfield
Chicken Soup for the Indian Teenage Soul is a collection of stories specifically aimed at Indian teenagers. The book tackles various aspects of teenage life within the context of Indian culture and traditions. It offers relatable experiences and provides comfort and hope to young Indian readers. The stories often focus on navigating cultural expectations and celebrating Indian values. The book's success demonstrates the series' ability to connect with specific cultural demographics.
Best of a Second Helping of Chicken Soup for the Soul
Jack Canfield
A Second Helping of Chicken Soup for the Soul continues the tradition of the original book, offering another collection of heartwarming and inspirational short stories. The stories maintain the positive and uplifting tone of the first book, focusing on themes of kindness, courage, and perseverance. The book expands on the themes of the original, exploring a wider range of human experiences. It continues to resonate with readers seeking comfort and encouragement. The book's success solidified the Chicken Soup for the Soul series as a beloved and enduring collection.
Chicken Soup for the Soul
Cartoons for Teachers
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Amy Newmark
This book is a compilation of short, inspirational stories and motivational essays gathered by motivational speakers Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. The stories are drawn from their audience members and focus on themes like kindness, love, and compassion. Despite initial rejections by major publishers, the book became a huge success and spawned a series of similar titles. It has been a New York Times bestseller and has sold millions of copies worldwide[3][4].
The stories range from motivational tales of people overcoming challenges to acts of kindness and poems that inspire reflection on life's possibilities. The book aims to warm the reader's heart and remind them of the good things in the world, promoting a sense of love, kindness, and compassion[1].
The Secret
Rhonda Byrne
The Secret by Rhonda Byrne introduces the concept of the law of attraction, which suggests that positive thoughts can attract positive outcomes in life. The book outlines a three-step process: ask, believe, and receive. Byrne emphasizes the importance of gratitude, visualization, and maintaining a positive mindset to achieve one's desires. The book covers various areas such as prosperity, relationships, health, and happiness, and includes examples and quotes from historical and modern-day teachers who have allegedly used this principle to achieve their goals[2][3][5].
Chicken Soup for the Soul
Cartoons for Teachers
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Amy Newmark
This book is a compilation of short, inspirational stories and motivational essays gathered by motivational speakers Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. The stories are drawn from their audience members and focus on themes like kindness, love, and compassion. Despite initial rejections by major publishers, the book became a huge success and spawned a series of similar titles. It has been a New York Times bestseller and has sold millions of copies worldwide[3][4].
The stories range from motivational tales of people overcoming challenges to acts of kindness and poems that inspire reflection on life's possibilities. The book aims to warm the reader's heart and remind them of the good things in the world, promoting a sense of love, kindness, and compassion[1].
Chicken Soup for the African American Woman's Soul
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Lisa Nichols
This book is a rich collection of stories that highlight the mountaintops and valleys of the African American woman's experience. It celebrates moments of strength and shares the struggles, honoring the legacy of sisterhood through various personal and inspiring narratives.
Chicken Soup for the Soul
Cartoons for Teachers
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Amy Newmark
This book is a compilation of short, inspirational stories and motivational essays gathered by motivational speakers Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. The stories are drawn from their audience members and focus on themes like kindness, love, and compassion. Despite initial rejections by major publishers, the book became a huge success and spawned a series of similar titles. It has been a New York Times bestseller and has sold millions of copies worldwide[3][4].
The stories range from motivational tales of people overcoming challenges to acts of kindness and poems that inspire reflection on life's possibilities. The book aims to warm the reader's heart and remind them of the good things in the world, promoting a sense of love, kindness, and compassion[1].
The Power of Positive Thinking
Norman Vincent Peale
Published in 1952, 'The Power of Positive Thinking' is a classic self-help book that emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset to overcome life's challenges. Dr. Peale provides practical techniques such as affirmations, visualization, and faith to help readers build self-confidence, achieve their goals, and improve their personal and professional relationships. The book is rooted in Christian ethos and uses biblical teachings to guide readers towards a more fulfilling and joyful life.
Chicken Soup for the Soul
Cartoons for Teachers
Mark Victor Hansen
Jack Canfield
Amy Newmark
This book is a compilation of short, inspirational stories and motivational essays gathered by motivational speakers Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. The stories are drawn from their audience members and focus on themes like kindness, love, and compassion. Despite initial rejections by major publishers, the book became a huge success and spawned a series of similar titles. It has been a New York Times bestseller and has sold millions of copies worldwide[3][4].
The stories range from motivational tales of people overcoming challenges to acts of kindness and poems that inspire reflection on life's possibilities. The book aims to warm the reader's heart and remind them of the good things in the world, promoting a sense of love, kindness, and compassion[1].
Chicken Soup for the Soul was the brainchild of two motivational speakers who preach the New Thought belief system known as the Law of Attraction. For more than 30 years, the self-help series has compiled reader-submitted stories about kindness, courage, and perseverance into easily digestible books aimed at almost every conceivable demographic: Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul, Chicken Soup for the Grandma’s Soul, Chicken Soup for the Golfer’s Soul, and on and on. Since 1993, these books have sold more than 500 million copies worldwide, becoming the best-selling non-fiction book series of all time.
But in recent years, the company has become many other things that seem lightyears away from inspirational publishing: a line of packaged foods, a DVD kiosk retailer, and a meme stock. In this episode, with the help of journalist Amanda Chicago Lewis, we tell the story of how this feel-good brand went from comfort food to junk.
This episode was written by Willa Paskin and Max Freedman and produced by Max. It was edited by Evan Chung, Decoder Ring’s supervising producer. Our show is also produced by Katie Shepherd. Merritt Jacob is Senior Technical Director. Special thanks to Rachel Strom.
If you have any cultural mysteries you want us to decode, please email us at DecoderRing@slate.com, or leave a message on our hotline at 347-460-7281.
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