
Blocked and Reported
Journalists Katie Herzog and Jesse Singal scour the internet for its craziest, silliest, most sociopathic content, part of an obsessive and ill-conceived attempt to extract kernels of meaning and humanity from a landscape of endless raging dumpster fires. www.blockedandreported.org
Latest episodes

Feb 13, 2025 • 18min
Premium: Sava Bros Go Broke
Dive into the wild world of online investing with a focus on the SAVAges, a group of misled investors backing a dubious Alzheimer's drug. The conversation shifts to the film 'Amelia Perez,' sparking debates about its controversial themes, mixed reviews, and the significance of its trans lead. Along the way, the hosts tackle the absurdities of digital life, including a humorous take on AI's role in creativity. Get ready for a blend of laughter, skepticism, and thought-provoking discussions!

18 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 1h 11min
Episode 247: The Zizians' Reign of Terror (with Tracing Woodgrains)
This week, guest Jack Despain Zhou, a former producer turned law student and educational advocate, dives into some controversial topics. He shares insights on the troubling dynamics of the Zizians cult, led by the enigmatic trans figure Ziz, and explores the implications of prioritizing diversity over merit in hiring practices at the FAA. The discussion extends to the failures of the education system and the need for accountability. Zhou also critiques the challenges within the rationalist community, revealing how extreme ideologies can take root even in progressive spaces.

Feb 7, 2025 • 25min
Premium: The Fable of the Allegedly Racist Robot
This week, the hosts dive into the uproar surrounding a potentially racist AI and its fallout in the book world. They tackle the absurdities of government funding for news outlets, paired with a comedic exploration of New York nightlife. A scandal involving ethical breaches in journalism raises serious questions, illuminating the fine line reporters walk while covering polarizing figures. Throughout, humor and sharp insights highlight the complexities of navigating today's chaotic media landscape.

7 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 1h 6min
Episode 246: Shitcoin in Chief
Dive into the wild world of meme coins, where absurdity reigns with a smile! From parodying the latest crypto crazes to hilarious tales of dodgy investments, the hosts reflect on the volatile landscape of altcoins. They tackle the intersection of politics and crypto, including Trump’s surprisingly significant influence. Moreover, the conversation touches on ethical dilemmas regarding social media's role in society and pokes fun at the oddities of viral phenomena. Get ready for a mix of wit and wanderlust through the absurdities of our digital age!

Jan 30, 2025 • 17min
Premium: Transition Impossible
This week, the hosts dive into Trump’s executive orders impacting trans rights and military policies. A Seattle scandal involving ethical violations among reporters is discussed with humor and insights. They also explore the emotional toll of returning to office work amid political chaos. The complexities of ideological divides within social justice movements are examined, alongside the intricacies of Seattle's political landscape and the humorous misunderstandings surrounding race and endorsements.

Jan 25, 2025 • 38min
Episode 245: The Heil Heard 'Round The World
This week on Blocked and Reported, Jesse and Katie discuss Elon Musk’s arms. Plus, for Primos, we answer the question: What the hell do DEI offices do? And we dissect Trump’s Executive Orders on free speech, equity, and gender. Restoring Freedom Of Speech And Ending Federal Censorship – The White HouseEnding Radical And Wasteful Government DEI Programs And Preferencing – The White HouseDear Colleague Letter on Transgender Students (PDF) [RESCINDED]Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism And Restoring Biological Truth To The Federal Government – The White House To hear more, visit www.blockedandreported.org

Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 39min
Episode 244: The Breitbart Effect (with Ben Domenech)
In this engaging discussion, political commentator Ben Domenech, known for his sharp insights on The Transom, dives into the potential landscape of a future Trump administration. He and the host dissect the online right's evolution, touching on the bizarre origins of Andrew Breitbart's rise, sparked by an infamous incident. They also analyze the significance of the California wildfires, the misinformation surrounding climate change, and the complexities of contemporary conservative politics. A must-listen for anyone curious about today's political dynamics!

Jan 16, 2025 • 27min
Premium: Troll Wars
This week features a dramatic breakup between online figures Milo Yiannopoulos and Laura Loomer, drawing attention to the personal lives tangled in social media dramas. The podcast dives deep into Meta’s new hate speech policies, raising questions about free expression versus harmful rhetoric. There's a lively debate on TikTok's future in the U.S. amid privacy concerns, as well as a discussion on how collective intelligence can reveal truths in an age of misinformation. Sensitive topics are tackled with humor, navigating the stormy waters of modern communication.

17 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 1h 26min
Episode 243: Elon Musk Discovers The Grooming Gangs Of The UK (with Jeff Maurer)
Comedian and writer Jeff Maurer, known for his Substack 'I Might Be Wrong,' joins to tackle the somber issue of grooming gangs in the UK. They delve into the disturbing history of sexual exploitation in Rotherham, analyzing systemic failures that allowed these crimes to fester. The conversation also touches on Elon Musk's criticisms of gender-based violence and the cultural implications of AI personas on social media. Throughout, Jeff blends humor with critical commentary, highlighting the urgent need for change amidst serious societal issues.

13 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 1h 16min
Episode 242: "The Telepathy Tapes" Wants You To Believe The Unbelievable
Dive into the intriguing world of telepathy as the hosts explore a popular podcast claiming to uncover its existence in autistic children. They challenge the pseudoscience behind facilitated communication and examine its implications. The discussion also touches on the immigration debate, highlighting the cultural and political tensions surrounding it. From skepticism about extraordinary claims to the influence of social media on perceptions of identity, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at how beliefs shape our understanding of reality.