Unspun - podcast cover

Unspun

Amanda Sturgillredcircle.com

Unspun is critical thinking about the news. Hear real examples, past and present, of newsmakers attempting to mislead you and understand how they manipulate the truth. Learn how to avoid being swayed by fake news and misinformation. Get Unspun, because you deserve the truth.

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Episodes

Hijacking hashtags to control the conversation: How minor politicians make themselves stars

Politicians don’t just post online—they surf the trends. In this episode of UnSpun , Dr Sturg explores agenda surfing: hijacking trending topics to gain attention, distract from controversy, or push unrelated agendas. From Germany''s far-right 120 decibels campaign to Trump's Twitter distractions and coordinated WhatsApp groups in India, we show how political actors use digital platforms to dominate the conversation. Plus, we explain how crises and media events create golden moments of “shared a...

Jul 01, 202522 min

Riots or Rights? How Media Shapes Your View of Protests

Ever wonder why the same protest looks peaceful on one news channel and chaotic on another? In this episode of UnSpun , Dr. Sturg looks at how media coverage frames public demonstrations. Learn about the "protest paradigm," explore how journalists' choices shape your perception, and discover real-world examples from Black Lives Matter to historic marches in Birmingham and Occupy Wall Street. 🔍 What you'll learn in this episode: How media framing can turn peaceful demonstrations into perceived t...

Jun 24, 202522 min

Demagogues, Misinformation, and the Death of Truth in U.S. Democracy

Why do repeated lies work—even when we know they’re false? In this episode of UnSpun , Dr. Sturg explores the Big Lie in American politics, the psychology behind the illusory truth effect , and how figures like Kari Lake have used rhetoric to reshape public belief. She also talks to rhetoric expert Dr. Jennifer Mercieca, author of Demagogue for President , about how demagogues manipulate language to avoid accountability, build loyalty, and undermine democratic norms. Advertising Inquiries: https...

Jun 17, 202544 min

Before you tell Aunt Gladys to stuff it

What does Jan. 6 have to do with cherry picking? A lot, it turns out. Find out how. Plus Dr. Sturg tells what the research says about Thanksgiving dinner with the relatives. Can you change Aunt Gladys's mind? Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jun 10, 202518 minEp. 6

Dog Whistles & Double Meanings: How Politicians Hide Controversial Messages in Plain Sight

What do politicians really mean when they say “law and order,” “traditional values,” or “globalists”? In this episode of UnSpun , we explore the use of dog whistles—coded phrases that sound harmless but carry covert messages to particular audiences. From Nixon’s Law and Order to Trump’s use of “globalist,” we break down how this language works, why it’s effective, and how to spot it. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy...

Jun 03, 202521 min

Science, Health & Hype: How Misinformation Undermines Public Trust

Why are so many people turning away from evidence-based medicine? In this week’s episode of UnSpun , we explore the rise of health misinformation, the breakdown of public trust, and how philosophy, social media, and emotion are shaping our views of science. From vaccine skepticism to the raw milk debate, we walk through real-world examples and explain the logical fallacies behind modern health myths. Learn how constructivism, personal experience, and flawed definitions of “safe” and “effective” ...

May 27, 202528 min

Mistakes Were Made: The Art of Political Equivocation and Avoiding Accountability

“Mistakes were made.” “Kinetic military action.” “Efficiency.” These phrases sound harmless—until you dig deeper. This week on UnSpun , we explore the subtle, slippery language politicians use to avoid accountability, shift blame, and reframe controversies. From Obama and Elon Musk to Stephen Miller and the 2025 immigration updates, we break down real examples of weasel words, equivocation, and blame avoidance in action. Learn how to spot vague language, passive voice, and emotional manipulation...

May 13, 202522 min

Grandstanding: How Performative Politics Undermines Democracy

Political grandstanding is everywhere—from Congress to Tik Tok—and it's shaping how we talk, think, and even legislate. In this week’s episode of UnSpun , we break down performative patriotism, online outrage, and the troubling new USCIS policy monitoring social media for “anti-Americanism.” What happens when dissent gets misbranded as disloyalty? And how does grandstanding erode trust and civil discourse? Listen in as we explore the narcissism behind moral posturing and its consequences for dem...

May 06, 202524 min

The Language of Emotion, Power & Persuasion: How Metaphors Shape Politics:

Metaphors shape how we think—and feel—about politics. In this episode of UnSpun , we decode the hidden power of language, visuals, and music in political messaging. From Obama’s “arc of history” to crime-as-a-stain ads, learn how metaphors manipulate perception, stir emotion, and frame entire debates. Whether it’s a red hat, a patriotic soundtrack, or a cartoon donkey at the border—nothing is accidental. #PoliticalMetaphors #MediaLiteracy #UnSpunPodcast Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.c...

Apr 29, 202530 min

The Authoritarian Playbook: Why Universities, Law Firms and the Press are Under Attack

On this week's UnSpun, DrSturg explores why authoritarian governments target the press and educational institutions, and how these tactics are appearing in democracies worldwide: Why authoritarian governments restrict press freedom: Common tactics of information control: The consequences of information control: Ways to overcome the censorship Resources mentioned: Survey: http://bit.ly/UnSpunSurvey Books: "Detecting Deception: Tools to Fight Fake News" and "We Are #AltGov: Social Media Resistance...

Apr 22, 202525 min

Can Local Journalism Survive Big Tech and Billionaires?

In this episode of UnSpun , host DrSturg explores the past, present, and uncertain future of local journalism. Learn how local newspapers and TV stations went from thriving community pillars to empty shells—and why it matters. We examine the roles of money, consolidation, platforms like Facebook and TikTok, audience habits, misinformation, and AI in dismantling local media. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when no one covers city council meetings or school board votes, this episode is for yo...

Apr 08, 202525 min

Journalism in the Age of AI: Truth, Tech, and Transparency

This week, Dr. Sturg looks at the accidental Signal chat leak involving U.S. officials and journalist Jeffrey Goldberg, digs into the rising influence of artificial intelligence in journalism. AI tools like ChatGPT, DALL-E, and automated content generators are reshaping how news is gathered, produced, and consumed. Learn about the ethical risks, misinformation potential, and what you, as a news consumer, can do to stay informed. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & O...

Apr 01, 202526 min

Journalism, Bias, and the Battle Over Truth

What does it mean for journalism to be “objective”—and has that ideal outlived its usefulness? In this episode, DrSturg traces the rise of objectivity as a professional norm, examine how it shaped newsrooms, and look at the moments where it fell short—from Civil Rights reporting to vaccine coverage. She explores how political polarization, social media, and the calls for “moral clarity” are reshaping the conversation today. With real-world stories and thoughtful analysis, she unpacks why objecti...

Mar 25, 202527 min

Testing Boundaries: How Politicians and Media Shift Public Perception

How do once-radical ideas become mainstream? In this episode of UnSpun , explore the Overton Window—the concept that explains how political and social boundaries shift over time. From the Green New Deal to gun control laws, media coverage, and social movements, I break down how public opinion is influenced, often without us realizing it. Join me as we unpack agenda-setting, framing, and the tactics newsmakers use to reshape reality. Stay sharp, Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands...

Mar 18, 202522 min

The Press in an Oligarchy: How Power Controls the News

Who really controls the news? In this episode of UnSpun , we explore the role of the press in an oligarchy—where a small, powerful elite shapes public perception through media ownership, restricted access, and censorship. From billionaire-backed news outlets to state-controlled narratives, we break down how information is manipulated and what journalists can do to fight back. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy...

Mar 11, 202523 min

News vs. Opinion: How to Tell the Difference in Today’s Media Landscape

In today’s media landscape, distinguishing between news , commentary , and editorials has become harder than ever. With publications shifting editorial policies (like Jeff Bezos’ recent changes at the Washington Post), cable news blending reporting with opinion, and social media amplifying misleading content, it’s no wonder audiences feel lost. Image credit: By Ed! at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=36144156 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircl...

Mar 04, 202523 min

Weaponized Humor & The Decline of Investigative Journalism: Why Truth Is Under Attack

Ever notice how politicians & public figures claim their most controversial statements were "just a joke"? It’s not by accident. In this episode of UnSpun , we dive into how humor is used as a shield—and a weapon. Then, @DrSturg breaks down the techniques of investigative journalism, a struggling but vital part of a news organization's work. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy...

Feb 25, 202520 min

The Watchdog vs. Bureaucracy: Journalism’s Role in Government Accountability

Join DrSturg to explore the complex relationship between journalism and bureaucracy. From the history of the spoils system and civil service reform to modern challenges like restricted access and regulatory capture, this episode examines how journalism holds bureaucracies accountable while facing its own pressures Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy...

Feb 18, 202527 min

Why You're Addicted to Outrage: How feelings control what you do online

Social media manipulators are using age-old communication tactics to keep you angry and to get you to click and share. In this episode of UnSpun, learn the tactics that can change everything from what you think to how you act. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Feb 11, 202529 min

The Dark Side of Social Proof: How Popularity Promotes Misinformation

In this episode of UnSpun , we look at social proof—how the popularity of an idea, product, or belief can influence our decisions in ways we don’t even realize. From political mandates to viral crowdfunding campaigns, and even robots gaining our trust, we’ll uncover the hidden forces of social proof in our daily lives. With clips from newsmakers so you can try your skills, this episode will leave you questioning what you believe—and why. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privac...

Feb 04, 202524 min

Access Journalism: Are journalists too close to the powerful?

Test the murky waters of access journalism—the practice of prioritizing relationships with sources over journalistic objectivity. Dr. Sturg discusses cases including the downfall of Harvey Weinstein, a reflection on Trump’s media strategy, and Bob Woodward’s books, to explore how access can shape the stories you hear. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy...

Jan 28, 202522 min

Online Anonymity: How Digital Masks Shape Our Behavior

There are complex dynamics to online anonymity and how we act when we think we won't get caught. From cyberbullying to support communities, discover how anonymous interactions shape your digital lives. Dr. Sturg uses research insights, real-world cases to give you practical strategies for responsible online engagement. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy...

Jan 21, 202523 min

Are fact-checkers better than community notes: Is Facebook making a mistake?

Dr. Sturg gets into the question: Who should fact-check online information? Meta's recent decision to end its professional fact-checking program on Facebook and Instagram in favor of a community-based system sparked a significant debate. For years, professional fact-checkers with rigorous training have been the gatekeepers of truth, meticulously investigating claims and ensuring accuracy with a systematic approach. Now, Meta is shifting to a system similar to X's (formerly Twitter) Community Not...

Jan 14, 202512 min

From radicalization to resilience: Finding balance on social media

In this week's episode of UnSpun, Inspired by the tragic New Year's attack in New Orleans, we explore the research on how social media can create echo chambers that manipulate and radicalize people online. But it's not all doom and gloom—we also highlight the positive aspects of social media, such as connecting with loved ones, finding communities, and online organizing. Join DrSturg as we discuss mindful consumption, setting boundaries, and building resilience to live a better digital life.. Ad...

Jan 07, 202521 min

How Politicians Divide and Conquer with Wedge Issues

If you feel like we're divided, you're not wrong. Dr. Sturg takes you though the strategic manipulation of public opinion through the wedge strategy. This week, explore how politicians deliberately create and weaponize wedge issues to manipulate voter emotions, exploit social tensions, and even reshape the political landscape. From the civil rights movement to the COVID-19 pandemic, this episode provides a comprehensive analysis of how political actors try to force you onto a team and shows you ...

Dec 31, 202424 min

Why does the news make people feel so upset?

Episode Highlights Explore false cause and see how newsmakers overhype correlations Find out how media influences how we process information Key Takeaways Our brains are wired to find patterns, sometimes creating false connections Media consumption can significantly impact our worldview, but you can stop it Deep Dive Topics Scientific thinking and identifying true causal relationships Cultivation theory in media consumption Selective exposure and its impact on political understanding Practical A...

Dec 17, 202422 minEp. 52

The Freedom Paradox: How Fear Leads to Poor Decisions

In this week's UnSpun, DrSturg breaks down the research on reactance, a human behavior that explains choices like refusing masks. Delve into the psychological concept of reactance and explore why people resist when they feel their personal freedom is under threat. We discuss real-life examples and hypothetical scenarios that illustrate how reactance manifests in everyday situations, from online experiences to family gatherings, and even in educational settings. Follow Dr. Sturg BlueSky - Prof. A...

Dec 10, 202415 minEp. 51

Modern Propaganda: Unmasking Media Manipulation

In this episode of UnSpun, Dr. Sturg explorse guilt by association and dive deep into modern propaganda. From historical exampless to today's digital battlegrounds, discover how propaganda has evolved and what research says makes you susceptible. Starting out, learn how people judge others unfairly. Seet how propaganda has changed over time, from Nazi Germany to today's social media. Those who want to influence others have found new tools but still use old tricks to persuade people. Learn what s...

Dec 03, 202424 minEp. 50

The Hidden Truth Behind Political Purity Tests

In this episode of UnSpun, we explore the Appeal to Purity—a tricky way people exclude others from groups to manipulate thinking. We look at how this tactic works, its history, and how to defend against it with simple strategies. From political rallies to major historical events, we'll unpack the impact of this fallacy. Follow Dr. Sturg BlueSky - Prof. Amanda Sturgill (@DrSturg) Websites - Sturg says | Unspun’s Substack Questions and Tips [email protected] Dr. Sturg’s Books Detecting De...

Nov 19, 202415 minEp. 49
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