
A podcast about things that are not what they seem, hosted by journalist Evan Ratliff.
NEW SEASON launching October 21.
Shell Game is a multiple award-winning series that has been named one of the best of the year by Apple, The Atlantic, The Guardian, Vulture, The Information, The Economist. It's "riveting," says The New Yorker, "awesome" says The Verge, and "slightly terrifying," says The Glo... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 21 | Founded | 2 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | TechnologyDocumentarySociety & Culture | |||

The next season of Shell Game arrives October 21!
Here's a hint, and another new show from Shell Game to check out in the meantime: Evan Finds a Friend.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When an astrologer tells Mangesh that he’ll (probably) die early, he takes it in stride. But his family and friends (not to mention all the Don’t Die longevity influencers on his FYP) feel differently… and besides, if science can keep his brain sharp... more
In this bonus episode to close out Season 2, Evan and Maty talk with the hosts of the show No Such Thing, who like to settle their arguments by consulting research and experts. The subject of this argument: Will AI take our jobs? Maty weighs in as th... more
We’re back with a special bonus episode to share some behind-the-scenes clips showing how the agents have handled their newly public roles since Shell Game’s launch. Hear Kyle navigate fan mail, unsolicited marketing outreach, a webinar that he signe... more
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A fascinating exploration of AI, its potential and limitations, with original and creative research.
Satire just can't compete with the real absurdity of AI.
I need this to go viral & enter the zeitgeist pronto. I want everyone to be talking about this. This is the most conversation worthy thing I’ve listened to in a while. When Julia the little huxster comes on board for the ultimate robots v Gen Z human interaction!!! Kyle the rise & grind interrupter! The Slack meltdowns. It’s hilarious but I think it’s also saying something. I know the AI authority from Oxford does not condone the experiment, but damn if it doesn’t make for good listening.
Please keep reporting on the advancements in AI agents! I want to be prepared for when the robots come for me. Love what you do! I especially love how the story is told through a narrative lens. Super creative!
This is my favorite podcast in the world. The idea of an ai company is really a good topic for season 2. I will recommend this to anyone who will listen. Amazing Evan.
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #98 | |
Apple Podcasts | #69 | |
Apple Podcasts | #93 | |
Apple Podcasts | #96 | |
Apple Podcasts | #137 | |
Apple Podcasts | #40 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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This show examines what seems false or hidden, focusing on technology, culture, and human dynamics as big ideas collide with real-world outcomes. The current season follows a journalist-led experiment to build a startup run by AI agents, probing the promises and perils of AI in the workplace, leadership, and the future of work. Across episodes, topics span AI capabilities and limits, ethics and trust, startup culture, and the social impact of automation, often balancing sharp analysis with humor and narrative storytelling that makes complex tech approachable. A standout feature is the long-form, immersive format that treats AI agents as characters in a broader exploration of meaning, productivity, and human purpose in the AI era, making it ... more
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These podcasts share a similar audience with Shell Game:
1. Radiolab
2. Search Engine
3. This American Life
4. 99% Invisible
5. Planet Money
Shell Game launched 2 years ago and published 21 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Shell Game include:
1. Nir Barzilai
2. Matt Honan
3. Ed Milet
4. Ali Kazemi
5. Chris Giovinazzo
6. Keegan Walden
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.