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 | 266 | Founded | 9 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | DocumentaryHistorySociety & Culture | |||
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Latest Episodes
Clowns have existed in various forms for thousands of years. From the big top to Bozo’s TV show, they used to be beloved figures of amusement and delight. What changed and made so many people suspect and fear them? In this episode, originally aired i... more
Few inspirational phrases are quoted more often than Mahatma Gandhi’s “Be the change you want to see in the world.” It shows up on t-shirts, bumper stickers, even tattooed on people’s bodies. Life coaches, leadership trainers, and American presidents... more
One of the many perks of subscribing to Decoder Ring Plus is access to every episode of Decoder Rings Back, our member-exclusive series where host Willa Paskin calls up a listener to answer their question about a cultural mystery directly.
This wee... more
In the early 1970s, a jigsaw puzzle of a cheerful, young, naked, fat woman known only as “Bridget in the Buff” arrived in stores all over America. It was just the first of countless Bridget-related merchandise that would be sold around the world for ... more
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Reviews
- Brigit is fabulous
Just finished the brigit episode - fabulous story but I reckon you coulda gone a bit deeper on the conservative response n fat shaming culture - it does not exist in a vacuum
Apple Podcasts4Sweet_geesus
Australiaa month ago I love to decode.
Podcast Addict5a month agopodcastgirlypop- Dakota Ring
Ugh. You’re one of those podcasts I can’t listen to due to the ear violations. Lose the vocal fry and ffs ENUNCIATE when you say “Decoder Ring” because it sounds just like you’re saying “Dakota ring” which is irritating af. But it’s actually less irritating than the host and guests who ALL say “Sortof” 5 times per sentence. Unfollowed
Apple Podcasts2123FakeSt
United States2 months ago - Those S sounds are awful
Really interesting podcast but be prepared for the worst ‘s’ sound human history from the presenter. Nauseating stuff.
Apple Podcasts4bcpretzelAustralia4 months ago - The nutbush is not in Aussie curriculum
What a huge exaggeration! As if we need more overblown myths that Americans believe is how we all live! I learnt the nutbush in high school in the 90s
at parties but it was never ‘taught’ by schools! Malarkey
Apple Podcasts3Sweet_geesusAustralia5 months ago
Listeners Say
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #49 | United States/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #48 |  Canada/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #66 |  United Kingdom/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #76 | Australia/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #129 |  France/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Apple Podcasts | #228 |  Germany/Society & Culture/Documentary |
Talking Points
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Audience Metrics
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Frequently Asked Questions About Decoder Ring
What is Decoder Ring about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Decoder Ring offers thoughtful, wide-ranging explorations of cultural mysteries, tracing how objects, habits, and ideas originate and why they resonate. Each episode blends historical context, expert interviews, and narrative storytelling to reveal how culture and media shape our beliefs and behavior. Recent installments cover public health messaging, technological infrastructure, monumental sculpture, and iconic pop culture moments, often weaving archival material with fresh, multidisciplinary perspectives. A standout characteristic is rigorous research paired with accessible storytelling, plus occasional deep dives into surprisingly everyday topics that illuminate broader social patterns. This makes it a strong fit for listeners who enjoy... more
Where can I find podcast stats for Decoder Ring?
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How many listeners does Decoder Ring get?
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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. 99% Invisible
3. Search Engine
4. Hyperfixed
5. Articles of Interest
How many episodes of Decoder Ring are there?
Decoder Ring launched 9 years ago and published 266 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. Jonathan Martin
2. Lauren Coleman
3. Linda Simon
4. Richard Crawford
5. Zachary Fine
6. Pamela LaRegina
7. Trisha Emanuel
8. Michael Calkins
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.