Heather Cox and Jessica Morgan, co-founders of the iconic celebrity gossip blog Go Fug Yourself, dive deep into the wild evolution of celebrity culture. They explore how social media has reshaped celebrity images and paved the way for influencers, while nostalgically reflecting on the vibrant gossip landscape of the 2000s. They discuss the challenges of distinguishing truth from sensationalism in modern gossip and the authenticity crisis celebrities face today. This insightful conversation is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the current state and future of celebrity discourse.

In this engaging discussion, Kelsey Vlamis, a Senior Reporter at Business Insider, unpacks the evolving world of thrifting. She reminisces about the tactile experience of vintage finds and contrasts it with today's fast fashion crisis. The conversation dives into the rising prices of thrifted goods despite increasing donations, explores the emotional complexity of decluttering, and highlights the generational shift in consumer attitudes towards sustainable shopping. Kelsey even presents a thrifting mystery—can listeners help solve it?

Ash Compton is a licensed psychotherapist and cultural theorist, while Rachel Monroe is a writer at The New Yorker and co-host of Bad Therapist. They dive into the rise of therapy speak, exploring its evolution and influence on culture, especially via social media. The discussion critiques how therapeutic language can be misused, oversimplifying complex emotions. They also examine the implications of therapeutic terms in personal relationships and the workplace, raising vital questions about authenticity and meaningful communication in our fast-paced world.

Youngna Park, a writer with a focus on children's toys and modern parenting, shares her insights on the world of kids' toys. She dives into the nostalgia of toys from the past, like My Little Ponies, and discusses the societal pressures tied to toy selection. The conversation highlights the enduring appeal of wooden toys and critiques the aesthetics of children's playthings in relation to class. Park also explores the dynamics of gift-giving and how economic factors shape children's play experiences. Get ready to rethink your toy choices!

In this engaging conversation, Adib Khorram, an award-winning author celebrated for his queer fiction, dives into the vibrant world of queer romance. He discusses the nuances of queer narratives, the impact of upbringing on love, and the importance of diverse representation. Khorram also addresses the controversy surrounding queer romance written by straight authors and the surge in popularity of MM plots. Listeners will find insightful recommendations and a call for authenticity, making this a must-listen for anyone curious about queer literature.

Discover the fascinating rise of Quince and its claims of ethical practices amid skepticism about cashmere pricing. Reflect on how brands like J.Crew and Madewell evoke nostalgia while grappling with changing consumer preferences. Explore the intersection of fashion and cultural values, and how inclusivity reshapes brand identities. Delve into the complexities of fair pricing in a capitalist world. Plus, enjoy playful discussions about personal fashion favorites that invite listener engagement.

Hannah McGregor, co-host of Material Girls and author of Clever Girl: Jurassic Park, dives into the captivating world of blockbusters. She discusses the nostalgia surrounding iconic films like Jurassic Park and explores how the industry has shifted from star power to intellectual property dominance. The conversation reveals the challenges facing modern cinema amidst a decline in movie attendance and highlights the balance between CGI and practical effects in engaging audiences. From Barbie to Twisters, McGregor sheds light on the evolution and future of blockbuster films.

Sam Sanders, a talented podcaster known for Vibe Check and The Sam Sanders Show, joins the discussion on Nicole Kidman's fascinating career. They explore her unique ability to portray rich, miserable characters, dissect the implications of Hollywood's beauty standards and aging, and critique the representation of wealth and race in film. The hosts also share imaginative casting ideas and discuss the cultural impact of celebrity relationships, all while keeping the conversation light and engaging.

Rose Eveleth, the host of the Tested Podcast, dives deep into the controversial world of gender verification in women’s sports. She challenges the transphobic narratives surrounding participation and highlights historical struggles faced by female athletes. The discussion reveals how fairness in sports is often misunderstood, focusing on the unique challenges transgender athletes encounter. Eveleth also examines how societal perceptions impact athletes with disabilities, and the ongoing need for inclusivity and equity across all levels of competition.

Alyssa Morris, author of the newsletter 'Romancing the Phone,' specializes in BookTok trends and the romance genre. She uncovers the vibrant world of BookTok, where creativity meets community, reshaping reading culture and marketing strategies. The discussion dives into the rise of influencer-led book clubs, the impact of social media on publishing dynamics, and the democratization of author fame. Morris also highlights how genres like romance are celebrated on these platforms, challenging societal stigma and fostering inclusivity in literature.