American Hysteria
chelsey weber-smithAmerican Hysteria explores how fantastical thinking has shaped our culture – moral panics, urban legends, hoaxes, crazes, fringe beliefs, and national misunderstandings. Poet-turned-podcaster Chelsey Weber-Smith tells the strangest stories from American history and examines the forces that create the reality we share, and sometimes, the reality we don't.
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 297 | Founded | 7 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Society & CultureHistory | |||
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Latest Episodes
Today we bring you an episode of another great podcast: History Daily. Every weekday, host Lindsay Graham (American Scandal, American History Tellers) takes you back in time to explore a momentous event that happened ‘on this day’ in history. Please... more
In 1980, a Stonehenge-esque monument called the Georgia Guidestones appeared in the rural county of Elbert. Financed and designed by a mysterious donor, it presenting ten guidelines for mankind, guidelines that were interpreted by some as a satanic. ... more
Take a seat in our old, ornate theater for the confounding wonders of this traveling magic show. For this episode, my dear friend is here, the artist, musician, cowboy, sailor, and now magician, known as Gruff Webb. They will tell me all about the hi... more
This is a Subscribers-Only episode from 2024 in which I tell our producer Miranda about a wild April Fools Day prank that took place in 19th century London involving hundreds of people from bakers and undertakers to bankers and politicians. If you li... more
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Reviews
- Jingle all the Way!
When two authentic American voices team up to tackle the topic of commercial jingles, the result is as informative as it is entertaining. I found this episode well-researched, clearly written and well-executed (like all episodes of American Hysteria). But in addition, we get the chemistry between two influencers who enjoy each other’s company as much as they enjoy seeking the truth in their research. Their ad-libs end hilariously and their combined knowledge on the topic makes for a light and en... more
Apple Podcasts5Elliott in Kent
United Statesa month ago - Thank you so gd much
Honestly, the collabs with C-W-S and Sarah Marshall are the best podcasting *ever*. I literally laugh out loud (which can be awkward) and I learn a lot. There was a reference to how crayons are made on Mr Rogers, and I was like, that’s how I know how crayons are made!!!!
Thank you for your work; i appreciate the fuuuuuuck out of you.
Apple Podcasts5KimmehR
Canadaa month ago - Cool topics + stilted and affected delivery = usually unlistenable
This is research and narrative I would LOVE to enjoy. But Chelsey continually chooses to speak in an awkward, theatrical affectation that renders it fully unlistenable. I tried listening on a faster speed, but that didn’t change the distracting delivery. I do listen when there’s a guest to bring out Chelsey’s normal speech patterns, and I enjoy those greatly. ETA: It is not weird to review a podcast based on subjective opinions, as that is literally what a review is.
Apple Podcasts1screw a nickname???United States2 months ago - Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!
Firstly, as a counter to some of the negative reviews, I love Chelsey's voice. It's like Lydia Deetz has a podcast. I also love the research and the topics. My only negative comment is that some of conjecture in the collab episodes is incredibly bias toward the podcasters shared view that most men hate women and that everyone's motive for doing anything is that hatred of women. Other than that, this is a great late night listen.
Apple Podcasts4YourRabidChild
United Kingdom2 months ago - Chelsey’s add
I love this podcast, but I’m sorry it sounds like this guest doesn’t know anything about bugs if she thinks it’s a “bee” on the silence of the lambs cover.
Apple Podcasts4Kat art listensUnited States2 months ago
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #198 | United States/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #241 | Canada/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #150 |  Hong Kong/Society & Culture |
Talking Points
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Frequently Asked Questions About American Hysteria
What is American Hysteria about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Across episodes, the show dives into how fear, myths, and cultural hysterias shape public understanding—from media sensationalism around insects and disease to the politics of misinformation, ritualized nostalgia, and the mechanics of propaganda. Conversations blend historical context, pop culture, and political critique, often featuring expert guests who illuminate how collective fears are manufactured, amplified, or resisted. The tone mixes rigorous research with accessible storytelling, and guest perspectives frequently broaden the discussion beyond a single incident to examine wider cultural patterns. Notably, the program consistently centers deep dives into media, history, and social dynamics, making it a likely draw for listeners who ... more
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How many listeners does American Hysteria get?
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How many subscribers and views does American Hysteria have?
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Which podcasts are similar to American Hysteria?
These podcasts share a similar audience with American Hysteria:
1. You're Wrong About
2. You Are Good
3. Maintenance Phase
4. If Books Could Kill
5. The Devil You Know with Sarah Marshall
How many episodes of American Hysteria are there?
American Hysteria launched 7 years ago and published 297 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
How do I contact American Hysteria?
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What guests have appeared on American Hysteria?
Recent guests on American Hysteria include:
1. Gruff Webb
2. Will Rogers
3. Kristen Rogers-Anderson
4. Dr. Mara Einstein
5. Akilah Hughes
6. Joseph Laycock
7. Annalee Newitz
8. Chelsey Weber-Smith
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.