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 | 292 | Founded | 7 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Society & CultureHistory | |||
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Latest Episodes
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We have had many media panics about swarms and hordes, about infestations and plagues of dangerous insects and arachnids that promise to rain destruction down on the defenseless American public. My guest today is comedian Akilah Hughes, host of the p... more
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- One of the best out there
I’ve been listening for years, a new American Hysteria episode gets priority in the playlist any time it drops. Huge props to Chelsea and everyone on the team!
Apple Podcasts5Johnnyleewombat
United Statesa month ago - I have listened to the show for years, but this is what finally made me Write a review.
I absolutely adore Chelsy. Their voice is so calm and soothing and silly and fun and I love everything about them. And since I found this podcast years ago through you’re wrong about, my favorite episodes are the ones featuring Sarah Marshall. But this review is not about loving Chelsy or Sarah. No no, this is a hate letter to Sarah. Because for the past four days, I have had the JG Wentworth jingle stuck in my head in the worst way! And every time I realize that I’m singing it (out loud of cour... more
Apple Podcasts5KMolinaroUnited Statesa month ago - Some things aren’t for everyone
Chelsey, I hope you don’t read these because some of these reviews are weird and maybe don’t understand pastiche, but if you do keep it up. Anything less would be a bit boring imo
Apple Podcasts5Lana DivinorumUnited Statesa month ago - i love this podcast & think it is wonderful
chelsey is a fabulous. the content, research, production, & presentation are all so consistently excellent. hope for many more years of American Hysteria.
also—and it does feel like i shouldn’t have to say this—but if you’re listening to a podcast & you dislike the voice of the host or the cadence in which they speak…then that podcast probably isn’t for you. & we don’t all need to know about it. weirdos. 🙄
Apple Podcasts5minifridgejonesUnited Statesa month ago - What do we want?!
DIRTBIKE HOTDOG MERCH!!
When do we want it?!
NOW!!
Apple Podcasts5Flaim66United Statesa month ago
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #163 | United States/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #161 |  Canada/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #248 |  United Kingdom/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #216 |  Australia/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #175 |  Norway/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #220 |  New Zealand/Society & Culture |
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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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What are the audience demographics for American Hysteria?
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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 292 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. Dr. Mara Einstein
2. Akilah Hughes
3. Joseph Laycock
4. Annalee Newitz
5. Chelsey Weber-Smith
6. Jelani Cobb
7. Liz Gotauco
8. George Civeris
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.