Diabolical Lies

Dive into the intriguing dynamics of Texas as a hotbed for right-wing extremism and Christian Nationalism. Discover how the state acts as a policy lab, influencing the rest of America. From humorous observations turning serious, to personal stories of danger in Dallas, the discussions highlight the stark realities of Texas culture. Explore contrasts in regional patriotism and identity, and hear the personal stakes driving the conversation about the ongoing 'Texasification' of national politics.

Caro and Katie dive into the buzz surrounding a CBS town hall featuring Erika Kirk. They kick things off with jokes before critiquing the heavy promotion and the reluctance from advertisers. The duo reacts to Kirk's alarming views on parenting and radicalization, especially her comments on devices and social media. A sharp analysis follows on the influence of Turning Point USA in the discussion, as they humorously dissect Kirk’s peculiar framing. They wrap up with lighthearted banter, providing a fun twist on serious topics.

The hosts delve into the ongoing strike by Starbucks Workers United, urging listeners to reconsider their holiday coffee habits. They highlight how consumer choices can significantly impact labor disputes, emphasizing the power of boycotts. The conversation touches on the union's origins, the challenges faced by workers, and the broader implications of a successful strike on wages across industries. Practical tips for supporting strikers are offered, along with a call to action for solidarity as international support grows.

This episode dives into the viral obsession with thinness sparked by Wicked's cast, scrutinizing the cultural implications of Elphaba's portrayal as a Black woman. The hosts unpack the backlash surrounding celebrity weight loss and the troubling comments on social media, including critiques from thin influencers. They explore the legacy of body positivity versus fat activism, the failed progress in legal protections, and the psychological aspects of anorexia. With humor and insight, they urge a trauma-informed approach to discussions about bodies.

The discussion kicks off with a humorous take on the provocative question: Are women ruining workplaces? The hosts explore the concept of the 'Great Feminization' and its connection to societal decline. They dissect Helen Andrews's essay, scrutinizing its flawed arguments and reliance on dubious evidence. Contradictions in claims, such as women's declining workforce participation, reveal deeper issues in the discourse. With sardonic wit, they analyze how feminist hysteria is perceived as displacing reason in today's discussions.

This conversation dives into the challenges writers face with Amazon's overwhelming influence on book sales. Insightful advice reveals how to better support authors through pre-orders and hardcover purchases. The hosts grapple with the persistent dominance of big platforms and their implications for indie bookstores. They passionately discuss the trade-offs writers navigate in retail while sharing practical tips for book buyers. The session ends on a lighter note, showcasing the hosts' humor and personal rapport.

Katie Herzog, a personal finance writer and creator of Money with Katie, opens up about her journey of building a seven-figure brand and her decision to reclaim her intellectual property from Morning Brew. She shares how the pandemic shifted her career, the exhilarating early days of her venture, and the challenges of balancing growth with creative work. Notably, she discusses her political evolution and the pivotal moment that led her to pivot back to long-form writing, embracing uncertainty while celebrating her independence.

Dive into the complexities of ethical consumption versus selling out in a capitalist world. The hosts discuss the origins of the phrase 'no ethical consumption under capitalism' and explore critiques of consumerism. They examine the impact of anti-litter campaigns that shifted blame to individuals and question if boycotts can truly affect corporations. Cultural shifts in the music industry are highlighted, alongside debates on artists performing for questionable regimes. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the enduring entanglement of commerce and culture.

Explore the complexities of childbirth in America as hosts dive deep into its cultural and political implications. They provide a humorous yet insightful overview of childbirth anatomy and process. The conversation takes a turn when they discuss how governmental health messages, especially regarding acetaminophen and autism, influence pregnancy advice. A reading of a significant White House memo adds an intriguing layer to the discussion, highlighting the political nuances that affect expectant parents.

Caroline and Katie kick off a lively discussion, reminiscent of their early voice memo exchanges. They delve into why criticism of art is essential, emphasizing that it's okay to appreciate without constant debate. Hopes and curiosities for Taylor Swift's upcoming album take center stage, exploring fan expectations and reactions. They also tackle the frequency of Swift's mention in listener feedback and reflect on the delicate balance between fandom and critique, highlighting personal experiences with backlash for their views.