Blocked and Reported

This discussion dives into the intriguing concept of AI psychosis. The hosts question its reality and potential dangers. They explore fascinating listener stories about boundaries in therapy and influencer culture. A case study reveals how intense chatbot interactions led to delusions in a user. The duo experiments with AI's flattering prompts, highlighting how chatbots can mislead ordinary people into believing they're geniuses. With humor and insight, they tackle the ethical implications of our digital interactions.

This week, the hosts delve into a TikTok saga about a woman who claims her psychiatrist groomed her into love. They discuss the evolving nature of TikTok storytelling and how a mundane ADHD tips video turned dramatic. Skepticism arises around her evidence, leading to debates on online power dynamics. The fallout includes public mockery, job losses, and even the use of AI as an exit coach. Ultimately, the conversation navigates the complexities of truth, harm, and the implications of AI in therapy.

Join veteran radio host Mike Pesca as he chats with Katie about her upcoming book and the evolving landscape of addiction recovery. They discuss the Sinclair Method, a less conventional approach to drinking moderation, and challenge cultural norms around abstinence. Their light-hearted banter features pets and personal stories, while diving into the challenges and innovations in alcohol treatment. Katie also shares insights on how online communities are shaping patient-driven methods, making for an engaging mix of humor and hard-hitting topics.

Katherine Dee, an insightful internet ethnographer and the voice behind the Substack Default Friend, joins for a fascinating discussion. They explore the wild evolution of online communities, from the quirky furries to the unsettling world of sissy hypno. Katherine delves into the dark side of digital culture, examining the motives behind violent acts like the Charlie Kirk shooting. As a parent, she shares her philosophy on limiting screen time to foster offline development and essential life skills.

This week, dive into the implications of cancel culture with the fallout from firings linked to Charlie Kirk. A gripping tale recounts a host's emotional journey as they search for their injured dog, Moose, providing a heartwarming contrast to serious themes. Discussions tackle the intersection of free speech and its effects on educators and columnists today. Plus, explore a provocative image probing issues of race and gun violence, and how public discourse shapes societal narratives amidst growing tensions.

The hosts delve into the chaotic intersection of politics and violence, reflecting on a recent assassination attempt on a public figure. They explore the emergence of Charlie Kirk and his influence on conservative youth, contrasting it with the left's organizational struggles. The conversation dives into internet culture, addressing how memes and political messaging intertwine. They tackle the absurdity of conspiracy theories and right-wing reactions to tragedy, highlighting the challenges of navigating today's polarized political landscape.

The discussion dives into Taylor Lorenz's advocacy for responsible technology use among kids, weighing varying perspectives on education and device access. COVID's impact on tech inequality is highlighted, particularly regarding low-income schools. The influence of cell phones on child development leads to a call for bans in classrooms. A probe into dark money funding political influencers raises pressing questions about journalism's integrity. Lastly, the complexities of political funding and influencer ethics unfold, showcasing the challenges of transparency in modern discourse.

This week, the hosts dive into the fallout from the cancellation of the Polari Prize amid controversies surrounding trans representation. They discuss John Boyne's provocative works and the implications for Holocaust education. The debate around 'own voices' in literature raises questions about who gets to tell certain stories. Also featured are the legal ramifications of free speech in the LGBTQ+ discourse and the challenges of navigating identity politics in today's cultural landscape. Humor and serious issues intertwine as they unpack these complex conversations.

This installment tackles the controversial figure of Taylor Lorenz and the ethical dilemmas in journalism. The discussion dives into the quirky rental landscape of Boston, especially the craziness of 'Allston Christmas.' Listeners will enjoy a humorous yet critical take on school phone bans and their implications for student access to information. Additionally, the podcast examines the complex relationship between tech policies and children's safety online, highlighting the tension between privacy laws and digital age verification.

The hosts dive into the controversy surrounding Cracker Barrel’s new logo and its cultural implications, reflecting the tension between tradition and modern branding. They also unpack the company's checkered history with discrimination and its recent diversity initiatives. In lighter moments, they speculate on the odd absence of Cracker Barrels in NYC and analyze Taylor Swift’s responsibility as a celebrity to address social issues. The duo balances humor with serious discourse on celebrity culture and societal expectations.