You're Wrong About

Sarah Archer, a home & garden correspondent and author, joins to dissect our obsession with cleanliness. She explores how societal pressures turned tidiness into a status symbol and critiques the absurdity of 'clean talk' trends that emerged during the pandemic. The conversation navigates the historical ties between architecture and cleanliness, emphasizing personal comfort over perfection. Archer humorously highlights the messiness of intimacy and the need to embrace imperfections in our homes.

Chelsea Weber-Smith, flim flam correspondent and podcaster known for American Hysteria, dives into the wild world of hoax memoirs. Discover the bizarre tales of girls raised by wolves and the deceptive allure of James Frey's bestseller, A Million Little Pieces. The conversation critiques addiction narratives and the sensationalism that clouds memory. With deep insight, Chelsea reveals the ethical dilemmas of literary hoaxes, authenticity, and the cultural impact of trauma narratives in storytelling. Get ready for some jaw-dropping revelations!

Listeners share moving stories of joy and resilience, emphasizing the importance of community connections. From celebrating creativity through art and puppetry to forming heartfelt bonds with crows, the narratives showcase how small moments can inspire hope. The discussions highlight how cultural exchanges and recreational leagues foster a sense of belonging. Ultimately, it’s a celebration of the power of shared experiences and uplifting gestures in navigating life’s challenges together.

Michael Schulman, author of 'Oscar Wars' and a staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into the chaotic and flamboyant history of the 1989 Oscars, often dubbed the worst ever. He discusses the eccentric production by Allan Carr, highlighting its bizarre opening featuring Snow White and Rob Lowe. Schulman reflects on the excesses of Hollywood at the time and critiques the industry's treatment of performers, especially women. He makes a case for why these notorious awards show moments are charmingly misunderstood and deserving of a second look.

Rachel Monroe, a keen journalist and co-host of Bad Therapist, teams up with psychotherapist Ash Compton to dive into the complexities of emotional labor. They explore how the term, coined by sociologist Arlie Russell Hochschild, has evolved and often misapplied in relationships. The duo critiques societal expectations surrounding emotional management, discusses 'weaponized incompetence,' and highlights the impact of gender dynamics in both personal and professional realms. Their candid insights offer a blend of humor and depth for better understanding emotional exchanges.

Molly Aitken, author of "Bright Eye Burn," dives into the fascinating story of Alice Kyteler, Ireland’s first witch accused of witchcraft. They explore the societal dynamics that led to such accusations, especially against powerful women. Aitken sheds light on how Kyteler's wealth and status shaped her narrative, reflecting on the absurdity of historical trials and the political motives behind them. The discussion also touches on contemporary gender struggles, women’s roles in healing, and the significance of narrative ownership in reclaiming female identity.

Blair Braverman, a renowned adventure and survival correspondent, dives into Aron Ralston's incredible story of survival under an 800-pound boulder. She paints a vivid picture of his harrowing decision to amputate his own arm and the emotional weight of such life-or-death choices. The discussion touches on the psychological aspects of survival, the thrill of mountaineering, and how personal narratives influence our perceptions of resilience. With insights from her own experiences, Blair challenges the glamorization of survival stories and unpacks the true human struggle behind them.

In this engaging conversation, Carolyn Kendrick, a producer and musician, shares insights about her new album, Each Machine, inspired by historical themes including the satanic panic. She discusses the transformative power of art in community bonding during uncertain times. The dialogue delves into the importance of personal routines for peace, reflections on the symbolism of tarot regarding hope and chaos, and how creative expression can serve as a catalyst for personal growth amidst societal unrest.

Join Sarah Archer, an author and Santa Claus expert known for her book "Mid-Century Christmas," as she delves into the rich history of the jolly old elf. Discover Santa's origins and how the evolving cultural landscape has shaped Christmas traditions. Sarah shares insights on the impact of capitalism and discusses the festive joys and burdens of modern holiday celebrations. She also explores the significance of personal traditions and the historical influences that led to today's consumer-driven Christmas.

Miles Klee, a Rolling Stone writer, dives into the fierce rivalry between Coca-Cola and Pepsi. He explores the nostalgic origins of Coca-Cola and its transformative marketing strategies, particularly its iconic holiday campaigns featuring Santa. Klee discusses Pepsi's tumultuous history and daring advertising tactics during tough times, revealing the racial dynamics entwined with their branding. The episode also covers wartime innovations, the chaotic aftermath of marketing blunders, and the broader cultural impact of the Cola Wars on American society.