Decoder Ring
Slate PodcastsDecoder Ring is the show about cracking cultural mysteries. In each episode, host Willa Paskin takes a cultural question, object, or habit; examines its history; and tries to figure out what it means and why it matters. Get more of Decoder Ring with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of Decoder Ring and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the Decoder Ri... more
| Publishes | Twice monthly | Episodes | 165 | Founded | 7 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | DocumentaryHistorySociety & Culture | |||
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Latest Episodes
Experimental archeology is, simply put, archeology that involves running experiments. Where traditional archaeologists may study, research, analyze, and theorize about how artifacts were made or used, experimental archaeologists actually try to recre... more
From The Simpsons’ Big Book of British Smiles to Austin Powers’ ochre-tinged grin, American culture can’t stop bad-mouthing English teeth. But why? Are they worse than any other nation’s? June Thomas drills down into the origins of the stereotype, an... more
In this episode we’re opening our mailbag to answer three fascinating questions from our listeners. How did “ass,” a word for donkeys and butts, become what linguists call an “intensifier” for just about everything? How do pharmaceuticals get their w... more
If you look at any list of best-selling cookbooks, certain words come up over and over again: quick, easy, fast, effortless. But is it actually possible to deliver deliciousness in no time? Or are these recipes too good to be true? This week, The Spo... more
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Reviews
- My Favorite Podcast
The host of this show has a fantastic delivery. Every podcast host should listen to her. This is how to voice a show. I wish there were more episodes, you can tell how much effort goes into each one. Great topics, love it.
Apple Podcasts5MediaMogul99
United States3 months ago - Poorly reported; lacking curiosity
I’ve listened to this from time to time, but the April 2025 episode on the history of spring break broke me. The host and her principal authority never ventured to any of the fabled spring break spots as students. They talk to all of one current student yo draw broad conclusions about how contemporary young people view and experience spring break; they openly say the spring breakers fly to beach destinations to escape cold weather — are they not familiar with American schools in the southeast wh... more
Apple Podcasts20tt0United States3 months ago NOT FOR KIDS! Very adult themes in most episodes.
Podcast Addict23 months agoRyanDarkStormer- Slate Plus Membership is a bait and switch
Do not give them your money. While they advertise no paywall with Slate Plus they fail to mention that if you sign up through the iOS app that that is not the same thing even though it says Slate Plus Membership and is a hundredish dollars a year. You will not be able to get around the paywall. They emailed me to say that it is actually different membership than what they say in their podcast. Bait and switch, do not trust them.
Apple Podcasts1Double oh 69 0069United States4 months ago - Fun and thoughtful
Love it!
Apple Podcasts5AshleyRoryUnited States4 months ago
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #21 | United States/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #142 | United States/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #15 |  Canada/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #52 |  United Kingdom/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #88 | Canada/Society & Culture |
Apple Podcasts | #43 |  Australia/Society & Culture/Documentary |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Decoder Ring
What is Decoder Ring about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Exploring the intricacies of popular culture, this podcast dissects various cultural phenomena to unveil their historical roots and contemporary relevance. Each episode invites listeners to reconsider everyday objects, rituals, and trends by examining their sociocultural narratives. From laugh tracks and spring break traditions to the evolution of Tupperware and the societal implications of gambling, the discussions are enriched by interviews with experts and personal anecdotes, making complex subjects both accessible and engaging. Notable for its blend of humor and insightful commentary, this podcast captivates those who enjoy examining the deeper meanings behind cultural practices and artifacts.
Where can I find podcast stats for Decoder Ring?
Rephonic provides a wide range of podcast stats for Decoder Ring. We scanned the web and collated all of the information that we could find in our comprehensive podcast database. See how many people listen to Decoder Ring and access YouTube viewership numbers, download stats, audience demographics, chart rankings, ratings, reviews and more.
How many listeners does Decoder Ring get?
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What are the audience demographics for Decoder Ring?
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How many subscribers and views does Decoder Ring have?
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Which podcasts are similar to Decoder Ring?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Decoder Ring:
1. Endless Thread
2. You're Wrong About
3. Search Engine
4. 99% Invisible
5. Articles of Interest
How many episodes of Decoder Ring are there?
Decoder Ring launched 7 years ago and published 165 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 Decoder Ring?
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Where can I see ratings and reviews for Decoder Ring?
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What guests have appeared on Decoder Ring?
Recent guests on Decoder Ring include:
1. Tom Scocca
2. Christopher Kimball
3. Liz Dunn
4. Ty Burr
5. Lisa Simmons
6. Dr. Danny Erker
7. Paul Iverson
8. Roberto Ferdman
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.