Shows
The ReheatHow Anne Hathaway Got Labelled a ‘Try-Hard,’ with Alex Sujong LaughlinThis week, we take on one of our favourites: Anne Hathaway, and with a very special guest: Alex Sujong Laughlin, the co-creator of Normal Gossip and host of pod Try Hard! Speaking of, that's what this episode is all about: how Anne went from America’s Princess™ to “try-hard” punching bag to the girlfriend of an all-time scammer and, finally, a beloved icon. It's a singular trajectory, and one we dig deep into. (Really, this is personal for these three former theatre kids.) Join us!📚 For further reading:– Vogue's Anne Hathaway Cover Story, July 2025– Vanity Fair's Raffaell...
2025-11-191h 06
Try HardZakiya Gibbons Goes On A DateZakiya Gibbons is rusty with dating women, so she goes to a queer speed dating event to shake the cobwebs off. Episode transcript here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1THYaMJZoV3e_45wsLsScbYxphcywyMIhltrJN0b4Ygc/edit?usp=sharingYou can contribute to Radiotopia's fall fundraiser with a tax-deductible donation here! Send me voice memos about the things YOU'RE trying at podcasts@defector.com, or you can message me or tag me on Instagram @alexlaughs. https://www.instagram.com/alexlaughs/ Try Hard is hosted and produced by Alex Sujong Laughlin. Editorial and pr...
2025-11-1732 min
Try HardJosh Gondelman Plays BasketballJosh Gondelman used to love playing basketball, but he can't seem to bring himself to play in his friend's long-running pickup game. Check out Josh's standup special, Positive Reinforcement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RAvNlgpdKKo Episode transcript here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KPusncOHye0q-x9GVxODOTuG-NMoLMjMUEVWlfg2f4I/edit?usp=sharing Send me voice memos about the things YOU'RE trying at podcasts@defector.com, or you can message me or tag me on Instagram @alexlaughs. https://www.instagram.com/alexlaughs/ Try Hard is hosted and produced by Alex Sujong L...
2025-11-0337 min
Try HardRax King Plays the BanjoRax King learns a song on the banjo to play at a jam.Check out Rax's new book, Sloppy: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/751421/sloppy-by-rax-king/ Episode transcript here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ajUijzXj3ynxpHQIvh-cQBwWdrztnZCiUzJBoQNeTQo/edit?usp=sharing Send me voice memos about the things YOU'RE trying at podcasts@defector.com, or you can message me or tag me on Instagram @alexlaughs. https://www.instagram.com/alexlaughs/ Try Hard is hosted and produced by Alex Sujong Laughlin. Editorial and production support from Audrey Mardavich, Tom Ley, and Jae Towle Vieira. J...
2025-10-2041 min
Try HardSabrina Imbler Goes HuntingSabrina Imbler is afraid of bugs, but they are working on a book about bugs. What to do?! In this episode, they attempt to catch and pin dragonflies. Episode transcript here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Zyi-6wY81SosLtcs1y0vZXufOcFwobddFQMCeO7NHzc/edit?usp=sharingSend me voice memos about the things YOU'RE trying at podcasts@defector.com, or you can message me or tag me on Instagram @alexlaughs. https://www.instagram.com/alexlaughs/ Try Hard is hosted and produced by Alex Sujong Laughlin. Editorial and production support from Audrey Mardavich, Tom L...
2025-10-0639 min
MiddlebrowMouse Moments w/ Alex Sujong LaughlinAlex Sujong Laughlin is the creator and host of the Try Hard podcast and co-owner of Defector Media. She is also the co-creator of the popular Normal Gossip podcast. We dive into Defector's profit-sharing model, internal company memos, Normal Gossip, SEC sorority life, secret handshakes, self-learning via Youtube, romaine lettuce, Ithaca and Zach Braff.
2025-10-011h 04
Per My Last EmailIs it Cringe to Try Hard at Work?Is it cringe to try too hard? In this episode, Kaila and Kyle are joined by Normal Gossip co-creator and Defector Media co-owner Alex Sujong Laughlin to talk about the ins and outs of being a “try hard” at work. Alex’s new podcast, Try Hard, documents people attempting things that they’re afraid to do, and in this episode you’ll hear about a couple of moments when Alex and Kaila’s fear of being cringe nearly held back their career progress.
00:00 Intro
01:40 What is “Try Hard”?
05:29 Why being a “try hard” in the office is per...
2025-09-2236 min
Try HardCeara Jane O'Sullivan Tries to CartwheelCeara Jane O'Sullivan takes a gymnastics class in an attempt to finally master the ultimate cool girl trick: the cartwheel. Check out Ceara's podcast, Petty Crimes, here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/petty-crimes/id1612693094Episode transcript here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10zWovNgFBG7w9b41zkZ5Fs95LX6uhj6y5UHykd0URIU/edit?usp=sharing Send me voice memos about the things YOU'RE trying at podcasts@defector.com, or you can message me or tag me on Instagram @alexlaughs. https://www.instagram.com/alexlaughs/ Try Hard is hosted and p...
2025-09-2231 min
Normal GossipBonus Episode: Try Hard with Erika CasupananToday, we’re bringing you an episode of Try Hard,a new podcast hosted and produced by one of our very own dowager queens of gossip, Alex Sujong Laughlin.This episode is the second episode of the season, and it features a familiar face, Erika Casupanan, the winner of the 41st season of Survivor, and a guest from the fifth season of Normal Gossip. Erika spent her life being the person she thought she "should" be. It turns out that doing her own thing doesn't rock the world the way...
2025-09-1738 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeBonus Episode: Try Hard with Erika CasupananToday, we’re bringing you an episode of Try Hard,a new podcast hosted and produced by one of our very own dowager queens of gossip, Alex Sujong Laughlin.This episode is the second episode of the season, and it features a familiar face, Erika Casupanan, the winner of the 41st season of Survivor, and a guest from the fifth season of Normal Gossip. Erika spent her life being the person she thought she "should" be. It turns out that doing her own thing doesn't rock the world the way...
2025-09-1738 min
Try HardDiana Moskovitz Rides a BikeDiana Moskovitz never learned to ride a bike when she was a child. Can she make her K-drama Han River bike riding dream come true? Episode transcript here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CR1x7BM2vyw_t44kvnvXehKfZLjkTLbYgwQCid3vgEQ/edit?usp=sharing Send me voice memos about the things YOU'RE trying at podcasts@defector.com, or you can message me or tag me on Instagram @alexlaughs. https://www.instagram.com/alexlaughs/ Try Hard is hosted and produced by Alex Sujong Laughlin. Editorial and production support from Audrey Mardavich, Tom Ley, and J...
2025-09-0826 min
Try HardYowei Shaw Hosts a PartyWhat happens when a wallflower tries to stand in the spotlight? Check out Yowei's podcast, Proxy.Episode transcript here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1q866ZRKA_MsysRPo1QQlBBESRfIksmQeZNFmbS_DUOg/edit?usp=sharingSend me voice memos about the things YOU'RE trying at podcasts@defector.com, or you can message me or tag me on Instagram @alexlaughs. Try Hard is hosted and produced by Alex Sujong Laughlin. Editorial and production support from Audrey Mardavich, Tom Ley, and Jae Towle Vieira. Justin Ellis is Defector's projects editor. Mixing by Samantha Gattsek. Our sh...
2025-08-2533 minNormal GossipBonus Episode: Rat Kings and Emotional Support Eggs with Sabrina ImblerToday's treat: an episode from our secret feed vault. If you'd like to get in on these monthly extra episodes, subscribe as a Friend or a Friend-of-a-Friend. Our guest this time is Sabrina Imbler! After catching up on Sabs' latest project—a series of interviews with federal workers fired by the Trump administration—Rachelle and Sabs partake in a batch of gossipy voice memos from our inbox.Sign up to watch SPLITSVILLE with Rachelle on August 16th here.You can find Sabs' interview with fired CDC Health Communications Manager Sarah Boim here.
2025-08-131h 02Normal Gossip | YouTubeBonus Episode: Rat Kings and Emotional Support Eggs with Sabrina ImblerToday's treat: an episode from our secret feed vault. If you'd like to get in on these monthly extra episodes, subscribe as a Friend or a Friend-of-a-Friend. Our guest this time is Sabrina Imbler! After catching up on Sabs' latest project—a series of interviews with federal workers fired by the Trump administration—Rachelle and Sabs partake in a batch of gossipy voice memos from our inbox.Sign up to watch SPLITSVILLE with Rachelle on August 16th here.You can find Sabs' interview with fired CDC Health Communications Manager Sarah Boim here.
2025-08-131h 02
Try HardErika Casupanan Sings in PublicErika spent her life being the person she thought she "should" be. It turns out that doing her own thing doesn't rock the world the way she thinks it will. It's actually pretty cool. Check out Erika's podcast, Happy to See Me. Episode transcript here. Send me voice memos about the things YOU'RE trying at podcasts@defector.com, or you can message me or tag me on Instagram @alexlaughs.Try Hard is hosted and produced by Alex Sujong Laughlin. Editorial and production support from Audrey Mardavich, Tom Ley, and Jae Towle Vieira...
2025-08-1136 min
Try HardMattie Lubchansky Takes a Yoga ClassCartoonist Mattie Lubchansky hates exercising in front of people, so in this first episode of Try Hard, she's trying out a real life yoga class full of real life strangers! By the way, you should buy Mattie's new book, Simplicity! Episode transcript here. Send me voice memos about the things YOU'RE trying at podcasts@defector.com, or you can message me or tag me on Instagram @alexlaughs. Try Hard is hosted and produced by Alex Sujong Laughlin. Editorial and production support from Audrey Mardavich, Tom Ley, and Jae Towle Vieira. Justin Ell...
2025-07-2831 minNormal GossipBonus Episode: A Beautiful Gossip OuroborosSurprise! In today's bonus episode, Alex Sujong Laughlin and Patrick Redford join Rachelle for some delectable morsels of gossip and not one but TWO big announcements! Try Hard premieres July 28th! Subscribe here or wherever you get your podcasts. Look out for Only If You Get Caught this fall! Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You...
2025-07-1656 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeBonus Episode: A Beautiful Gossip OuroborosSurprise! In today's bonus episode, Alex Sujong Laughlin and Patrick Redford join Rachelle for some delectable morsels of gossip and not one but TWO big announcements! Try Hard premieres July 28th! Subscribe here or wherever you get your podcasts. Look out for Only If You Get Caught this fall! Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You...
2025-07-1656 min
Try HardWelcome to Try HardIf there’s no shame in trying, why is it so hard? On Try Hard, Alex Sujong Laughlin helps people try the thing they've always wanted to do—from cartwheels to karaoke. First episode publishes July 28! Thank you to Charley Locke, Lilli Grace Barden, Yuli, and Juliana de Groot for lending your voices.
2025-07-1401 minNormal GossipHoneydew Farms with Shea CouleéIt is the season 8 FINALE and we've got the iconic Shea Couleé here with us for a tale of love and ambition amongst polyamorous bee farmers. Watch Shea in IRONHEART on June 24th and follow her on Instagram here. Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com....
2025-06-1156 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeHoneydew Farms with Shea CouleéIt is the season 8 FINALE and we've got the iconic Shea Couleé here with us for a tale of love and ambition amongst polyamorous bee farmers. Watch Shea in IRONHEART on June 24th and follow her on Instagram here. Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com....
2025-06-1156 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeHeartbreak Glitch Loop with Brandy JensenOur editor Brandy Jensen joins us for a good old fashioned neighborly feud. Read Brandy's essay, which she wrote for the Yale Review, called the Polycrisis here.Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by D...
2025-06-041h 09Normal GossipHeartbreak Glitch Loop with Brandy JensenOur editor Brandy Jensen joins us for a good old fashioned neighborly feud. Read Brandy's essay, which she wrote for the Yale Review, called the Polycrisis here.Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by D...
2025-06-041h 09Normal Gossip | YouTubeDemented Little Tango with Vinson CunninghamVinson Cunningham accompanies us to a fancy private school where the parents tend to get a little too involved in the yearly fundraiser. Follow Vinson on Instagram here. Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can a...
2025-05-2845 minNormal GossipDemented Little Tango with Vinson CunninghamVinson Cunningham accompanies us to a fancy private school where the parents tend to get a little too involved in the yearly fundraiser. Follow Vinson on Instagram here. Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can a...
2025-05-2845 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeA United Nations of Red Flags with Sam SandersSam Sanders returns for some gossip about a case of "accidental" love-bombing in a hostel. Follow Sam on Instagram here and check out The Sam Sanders Show for more hot takes on entertainment and culture. We recommend you start here.Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.
2025-05-2149 minNormal GossipA United Nations of Red Flags with Sam SandersSam Sanders returns for some gossip about a case of "accidental" love-bombing in a hostel. Follow Sam on Instagram here and check out The Sam Sanders Show for more hot takes on entertainment and culture. We recommend you start here.Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.
2025-05-2149 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeDevilish Horde of Pestilence with Nadira GoffeNadira Goffe comes with us to a shared rental house simmering with tension over roaches, cats, and a very special stew. Follow Nadira on Instagram here. Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find a...
2025-05-141h 00Normal GossipDevilish Horde of Pestilence with Nadira GoffeNadira Goffe comes with us to a shared rental house simmering with tension over roaches, cats, and a very special stew. Follow Nadira on Instagram here. Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find a...
2025-05-141h 00Normal GossipLARP Camp with Rebecca JenningsRebecca Jennings accompanies us to LARP Camp for a tale of dice, ghosts, and forbidden love. Pre-order Rebecca's book Be The Bombshell: What Love Island Teaches Us About Dating here and follow her on Instagram here. Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here! Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our...
2025-05-0748 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeLARP Camp with Rebecca JenningsRebecca Jennings accompanies us to LARP Camp for a tale of dice, ghosts, and forbidden love. Pre-order Rebecca's book Be The Bombshell: What Love Island Teaches Us About Dating here and follow her on Instagram here. Get your tickets for the Normal Gossip Live tour here! Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our...
2025-05-0748 minNormal GossipThe Most Ominous Bird with Alanna BennettAlanna Bennett joins us to explore what happens to you—physically and metaphysically—when you get into a fight with a magician. Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us and how to submit gossip on our Komi page: https://normalgossip.komi.io/Episode trans...
2025-04-3042 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeThe Most Ominous Bird with Alanna BennettAlanna Bennett joins us to explore what happens to you—physically and metaphysically—when you get into a fight with a magician. Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us and how to submit gossip on our Komi page: https://normalgossip.komi.io/Episode trans...
2025-04-3042 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeReverse Heist with Jonquilyn HillJonquilyn Hill hates pranks, which made her the perfect guest for today's tale of a townhouse torn apart by a prank gone wrong. Follow Jonquilyn on Instagram here and check out Jonquilyn's podcast Explain It to Me here.Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us...
2025-04-2347 minNormal GossipReverse Heist with Jonquilyn HillJonquilyn Hill hates pranks, which made her the perfect guest for today's tale of a townhouse torn apart by a prank gone wrong. Follow Jonquilyn on Instagram here and check out Jonquilyn's podcast Explain It to Me here.Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us...
2025-04-2347 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeSluts for Paperwork with Yowei ShawYowei Shaw joins us on [BLEEP] Island for a tale of volunteer firefighters, fancy snacks, and rampant nepotism. Follow Yowei on Instagram here and check out Yowei's podcast Proxy here. Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us and how to submit gossip on our Komi p...
2025-04-1654 minNormal GossipSluts for Paperwork with Yowei ShawYowei Shaw joins us on [BLEEP] Island for a tale of volunteer firefighters, fancy snacks, and rampant nepotism. Follow Yowei on Instagram here and check out Yowei's podcast Proxy here. Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us and how to submit gossip on our Komi p...
2025-04-1654 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeThe Couch and the F***boy with Scaachi KoulWelcome to season EIGHT of Normal Gossip! We're kicking off the season with Scaachi Koul and a story about the lengths you would go for a coveted couch. Order Scaachi’s book, Sucker Punch, here and follow her on Instagram here.Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of in...
2025-04-0950 minNormal GossipThe Couch and the F***boy with Scaachi KoulWelcome to season EIGHT of Normal Gossip! We're kicking off the season with Scaachi Koul and a story about the lengths you would go for a coveted couch. Order Scaachi’s book, Sucker Punch, here and follow her on Instagram here.Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of in...
2025-04-0950 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeBonus Episode: Life as a New York Times Bestselling Author with Kelsey McKinneyPopping into your feeds with a little treat! In today’s bonus episode, Kelsey joins Rachelle to answer all of our burning questions about her new book, You Didn’t Hear This From Me: Mostly True Notes on Gossip, reality TV, victorian marriages, and, you guessed it, gossip!Order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or b...
2025-02-2639 minNormal GossipBonus Episode: Life as a New York Times Bestselling Author with Kelsey McKinneyPopping into your feeds with a little treat! In today’s bonus episode, Kelsey joins Rachelle to answer all of our burning questions about her new book, You Didn’t Hear This From Me: Mostly True Notes on Gossip, reality TV, victorian marriages, and, you guessed it, gossip!Order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or b...
2025-02-2639 min
Signal HillIssue One CreditsSignal Hill is edited by Omar Etman, Jackson Roach, Annie Rosenthal, Lio Wong and Liza Yeager. Jackson and Liza are the editors in chief.The stories in issue one were created by Conor Gillies, Hannah Kingsley-Ma, Ian Lewis, Neena Pathak, Cheryl Rivera, Jackson Roach, Annie Rosenthal, and Hannah Sassoon, with support from the editors, and also from their cohort of fellow contributors.Fact checking on “Caterpillar Roadshow” and “A Porous Place” by Alan Dean.As of Issue One, the Signal Hill music library has been stocked by Clara E. Brill, J. Mamana, Ethan Philbric...
2025-02-1702 minNormal Gossip | YouTubeChampagne, Capers, and Cuddle Parties with Se’era Spragley RicksSurprise! In today’s bonus episode, Se’era Spragley Ricks (Normal Gossip’s lead producer) joins Rachelle to dive into your questions, New Year’s resolutions, and morsels of gossip.Get tickets to Kelsey's book tour here!Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.
2025-01-2940 minNormal GossipChampagne, Capers, and Cuddle Parties with Se’era Spragley RicksSurprise! In today’s bonus episode, Se’era Spragley Ricks (Normal Gossip’s lead producer) joins Rachelle to dive into your questions, New Year’s resolutions, and morsels of gossip.Get tickets to Kelsey's book tour here!Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se'era, Jae, Alex, and Kelsey, plus blog recommendations and secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.
2025-01-2940 minNormal GossipHoliday Bonus: Caked Up Spirit of ChristmasIn today's bonus episode, Rachelle and Kelsey discuss the cinematic experience that is 2015's The Spirit of Christmas. Warning: we could not stop talking about sex and drugs in this episode, maybe because the movie is so chaste.Get tickets to Kelsey's book tour here!Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Rachelle, Se’era, Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com...
2024-12-1855 minNormal GossipThe Suite Life of Rachelle and KelseyThank you so much to some eagle-eyed listeners who alerted us to the fact that we mistakenly published an earlier version of this episode, which contains an error mixing up the Arctic and the Antarctic, which are–famously—polar opposites. If you’re reading this, then you’ll hear the correct version, thank goodness. And as promised in the Instagram post, this version also has Kelsey crying in it. ❤️It’s a beautiful day for some big changes and gossip on the high seas! We have been keeping a secret from you for a while, and it’s time to finall...
2024-12-101h 00
Love to See It with Emma and Claire‘Sleepless in Seattle’ Is The First Great Parasocial Love Story w/ Alex Sujong LaughlinBefore online dating and social media, there were radio therapy shows. This week, we’re diving into Sleepless in Seattle, one of the first great parasocial love stories! Joining us to break it down is friend of the pod and Normal Gossip producer, Alex Sujong Laughlin!
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2024-12-101h 52
PRX Annual Report PlaylistNormal Gossip: The Joy of Being a Hater with Justin EllisThe editor becomes the edited this week because our editor Justin Ellis is joining us for a story about indoor children's playgrounds and the Facebook groups that bind them. PRE-ORDER KELSEY'S BOOK, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, HERE!!!Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets! You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us a...
2024-12-051h 00Normal GossipFamily Lore Drop with Hrishikesh HirwayGossip skeptic Hrishikesh Hirway joins us for a deep dive into the history of a (close) family full of secrets, lies, and prophecies.Follow Hrishi on Instagram @hrishihirwayGet tickets to Kelsey's book tour here!Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. Yo...
2024-12-0449 minNormal GossipIt Was Never About the Figs with Caroline O'DonoghueCaroline O'Donoghue joins us from across the pond for a story about art collectors with too much time and money on their hands. Follow Caroline on Instagram @czaronlineGet tickets to Kelsey's book tour here!Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You...
2024-11-2754 minNormal GossipHell in a Ham Bag with Carson OlshanskyTis the damn season for hometown crushes! Carson Olshansky joins us for a story about running into your high school crush while holiday shopping. Follow Carson on Instagram @carsonolshanskyGet tickets to Kelsey's book tour here!Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.
2024-11-2054 minNormal GossipNew England Stolen Valor with Tobin LowTobin Low is back for a story about a mysterious lobsterman and his cousin and how he brought a community together during season one of lockdown. Follow Tobin on Instagram @tobinlow!Get tickets to Kelsey's book tour here!Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!Please make your gift today and help us reach our goal of 2,024 donors so we can keep on making interesting and beautiful things for...
2024-11-1355 minNormal GossipThe Bro Never Dies with Josh GondelmanJosh Gondelman is BACK for a story about gross boys who love each other very much. Follow Josh on Instagram at @joshgondelman!Get tickets to Kelsey's book tour here!Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of...
2024-11-0658 minNormal GossipEmotional Support Fruits with Samantha IrbyOur old friend Samantha Irby is back for a story about what could go wrong when you bring a wild animal into your home. Follow Sam on Instagram at @bitchesgottaeat!Get tickets to Kelsey's book tour here!Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan...
2024-10-301h 04Normal Gossip | YouTubeNepo Baby for Trash with Alex Sujong LaughlinOur own Alex Sujong Laughlin joins us for a tale of petty thievery plaguing the Dept. of Sanitation during the most wonderful time of the year: Garbage Man Appreciation Week. Follow Alex on Instagram at @alexlaughs! Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can...
2024-10-231h 03Normal GossipNepo Baby for Trash with Alex Sujong LaughlinOur own Alex Sujong Laughlin joins us for a tale of petty thievery plaguing the Dept. of Sanitation during the most wonderful time of the year: Garbage Man Appreciation Week. Follow Alex on Instagram at @alexlaughs! Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can...
2024-10-231h 03Normal GossipEssential Oils and Illegal Casinos with Danielle HendersonWhen you cheat at bingo, the house always wins. Danielle Henderson joins us again for a story about how far parents will go to raise money for their kids' soccer team—and to gamble. Follow Danielle on Instagram and subscribe to her newsletter! Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop i...
2024-10-1658 minNormal GossipForbidden Feline Fanfiction with Ashley ReeseWelcome to season SEVEN of Normal Gossip! We're starting off the season strong with Ashley Reese and a story about a smutty fanfiction community. Check out Ashley on Twitter and Instagram and check out her Substack here. Episode transcript here. Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, here!Subscribe to our newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets!You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop i...
2024-10-0959 minNormal GossipCharcuterie Board of Gossip with Rachelle HamptonSurprise! In today's bonus episode, Rachelle Hampton (Normal Gossip's best friend) joins Kelsey for a basketful of updates on gossips past. Spoiler warning! Make sure you've listened to the following episodes: S1E8 Spot the ScammerS2E3 Squirrel EnthusiastS2E4 Short King of East TexasS3E1 Righteous Lesbian EnergyS3E6 In Defense of ChildrenS4E6 Vigilante RenovationSee you on October 9th for the premiere of season seven!Pre-order Kelsey's book, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME...
2024-09-2556 min
Laura Flanders and Friends: Solutions-Focused Progressive Perspectives on Politics, News, and CultureFull Conversation- Meet the BIPOC Press: Saving Journalism, Why Worker Ownership Matters in Media TodayHighlighting union vs. worker-owned business models in media: Hear from journalists at Defector, Hell Gate, and more.Full Uncut Conversation: While our weekly shows are edited to time for broadcast on Public TV and community radio, we offer to our members and podcast subscribers the full uncut conversation. The following is an episode from our monthly meet the biopic media series titled Is Worker-Owned Media the Future of Journalism? Where we discussed the crisis in journalism and what journalists are doing to take matters into their own hands. These audio exclusives are made possible thanks to our memb...
2024-08-0941 min
Laura Flanders and Friends: Solutions-Focused Progressive Perspectives on Politics, News, and CultureMeet the BIPOC Press: Is Worker-Owned Media the Future of Journalism?This show is made possible by you! Thank you for your continued support! Not a member? The business of media is in danger — but it sure isn’t dead. Many of the rising stars that were poised to “save journalism” like Vice and Buzzfeed have either entered bankruptcy or stopped reporting on news. There have been layoffs across the industry and many newsrooms have cut back on the resources available to journalists. But workers have also organized unions, including high-profile campaigns at Condé Nast and The New Yorker, and started worker-owned media like Hell Gate and Defector. This month...
2024-07-0129 minNormal GossipMFAs and Other Mistakes with Brittany LuseIt is the season 6 FINALE and we've got the amazing Brittany Luse here for a story about A-list authors, ill-advised MFAs, and pets in places where they shouldn't be. Listen to Brittany's podcast, It's Been a Minute, here! PRE-ORDER KELSEY'S BOOK, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, HERE!!!Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets! You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan M...
2024-06-191h 02Normal GossipThe Wormhole of Sasha with Gabby WindeyWe are joined this week by our gayest Bachelorette, Gabby Windey, for a story about queer love, polyamory, and a pair of *very* special tie-dyed overalls. Listen to Gabby's podcast, Long Winded with Gabby Windey. PRE-ORDER KELSEY'S BOOK, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, HERE!!!Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets! You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can a...
2024-06-1255 minNormal GossipRomancing the Stoned with Jenée Desmond-HarrisJeneé Desmond-Harris joins us for a tale of patriotism, fire drills, and accidentally getting too stoned at the wrong time. Listen to Dear Prudence and follow Jenée on Twitter here. PRE-ORDER KELSEY'S BOOK, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, HERE!!!Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets! You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds o...
2024-06-0558 minNormal GossipHaunted and Constipated with Sonalee RashatwarSonalee Rashatwar (they/he) joins us for an international story about families, inheritance, and haunting. Follow Sonalee on Instagram! PRE-ORDER KELSEY'S BOOK, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, HERE!!!Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets! You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us and how to submit gossip on our Komi...
2024-05-2957 minNormal GossipMinder, the Finder, and the Grinder with Elise HuElise Hu joins us for a tale of startup bros and the hermit crabs that come between them. Buy Elise's book, Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital. PRE-ORDER KELSEY'S BOOK, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, HERE!!!Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets! You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds...
2024-05-221h 00Normal GossipSexy Mushrooms with Avery TrufelmanAvery Trufelman of Articles of Interest joins us for a story about mushroom foraging, cultbrain, and greige athleisure. This is the mushroom video. Click at your own risk. PRE-ORDER KELSEY'S BOOK, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, HERE!!!Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets! You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about...
2024-05-1557 minNormal GossipReady to be Bunco-ified with Lindy West and Meagan Hatcher-MaysLindy West and Meagan Hatcher-Mays join us for a story where the protagonists find themselves, in the words of our submitter, "stuck in an inescapable Samuel Beckett style loop of scandal gossip, rumor and orthotic shoes." Listen to their podcast, Text Me Back, and subscribe to their Patreon!PRE-ORDER KELSEY'S BOOK, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, HERE!!!Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets! You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supp...
2024-05-0858 minNormal GossipThe Joy of Being a Hater with Justin EllisThe editor becomes the edited this week because our editor Justin Ellis is joining us for a story about indoor children's playgrounds and the Facebook groups that bind them. PRE-ORDER KELSEY'S BOOK, YOU DIDN'T HEAR THIS FROM ME, HERE!!!Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets! You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us a...
2024-05-011h 00Normal GossipAll the World is Rollerblades with Marlena RodriguezThis week's episode features daddy issues, rollerblades, and comedian Marlena Rodriguez! Some of you will remember her from our Los Angeles live show. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog recommendations, and bonus secrets! You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us and how to submit gossip on our Komi page: https://normalgossip.ko...
2024-04-2458 minNormal GossipA Beautiful Blood Celebrity with Ronald Young Jr.We are back and pettier than ever with season 6! We're joined by our Radiotopia colleague and host of Weight for It Ronald Young Jr. for a story about the ridiculous things we do when we fall in love with familiar strangers. Follow Ronald on all social media at @ohitsbigron (Instagram, Twitter, Threads, TikTok)One thing to clarify from episode 1 of season 6: CMV does not cause mono, herpes or chickenpox, but is in the same family of viruses that causes those illnesses.Subscribe to our new newsletter for writing from Kelsey and Alex, blog r...
2024-04-1758 minNormal GossipNormal Gossip Investigates: The Poop StoryAlex and Jae spent the last month trying to find the source of a tale we first heard back in season two. Is the poop story gossip? An urban legend? Guerilla marketing perpetrated on us all by Big Toilet? All of the above?
You can support Normal Gossip directly by buying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.
Our merch shop is run by Dan McQuade. You can also find all kinds of info about us and how to submit gossip on our Komi page: https://normalgossip.komi.io/
...
2024-02-1651 min
Never PostEpisode 0: Independent Media RoundtableTo kick things off, we had a roundtable conversation with a trio of makers and thinkers, all of whom are creating independent media. They are Gita Jackson (Aftermath), Alex Sujong Laughlin (Defector Media), and Rusty Foster (Today in Tabs).We wanted to talk with Gita, Alex and Rusty about the current state of media, and why each of them has decided to strike out beyond the big, legacy media organizations and create something new.You can find Never Post, including all episodes, at neverpo.st.
2024-01-3137 min
Never Post: SegmentsEpisode 0: Independent Media RoundtableTo kick things off, we had a roundtable conversation with a trio of makers and thinkers, all of whom are creating independent media. They are Gita Jackson (Aftermath), Alex Sujong Laughlin (Defector Media), and Rusty Foster (Today in Tabs).We wanted to talk with Gita, Alex and Rusty about the current state of media, and why each of them has decided to strike out beyond the big, legacy media organizations and create something new.You can find Never Post, including all episodes, at neverpo.st.
2024-01-3137 min
The Distraction: A Defector PodcastLet’s Remember a Podcast with Alex Sujong LaughlinDefector’s own Alex Sujong Laughlin joins Drew and Roth to discuss her article on the liquidation of Gimlet by Spotify. They stay on Media Creation Corner to discuss their experiences in digital media with Producer Eric, as well as the dust-up between Bill Simmons and the Royal Family, and take a second to talk sports by way of Lance Armstrong’s posting. All that, plus Remembering a Podcast and diving into the Funbag!Do you want to hear your question answered on the pod? Well, give us a call at 909-726-3720. That is 909-PANERA-0!
2023-06-2959 min
This DayAnne Royall, Common Scold (1826) w/ Kelsey and Alex from Normal GossipWe’re doing a couple episodes on moments of historical gossip with our new Radiotopia pals from the show Normal Gossip.
Today, we discuss Anne Royall, who in 1826 began publishing books and articles based on her travels around the country talking to everyday folks about their everyday lives. She was able to gather stories and map society in a new way — and also recieved a lot of pushback for it.
Jody, NIki, and Kellie are joined by Kelsey McKinney and Alex Sujong Laughlin of Normal Gossip to discuss Royall’s work and legacy.
Be sur...
2023-05-0423 minThis DayAnne Royall, Common Scold (1826) w/ Kelsey and Alex from Normal GossipWe’re doing a couple episodes on moments of historical gossip with our new Radiotopia pals from the show Normal Gossip.
Today, we discuss Anne Royall, who in 1826 began publishing books and articles based on her travels around the country talking to everyday folks about their everyday lives. She was able to gather stories and map society in a new way — and also recieved a lot of pushback for it.
Jody, NIki, and Kellie are joined by Kelsey McKinney and Alex Sujong Laughlin of Normal Gossip to discuss Royall’s work and legacy.
Be sur...
2023-05-0423 min
Slate TechnologyICYMI: Has TikTok Ruined Live Music?On today’s episode, Rachelle is joined by Alex Sujong Laughlin, a supervising producer and co-owner of Defector Media where she makes the podcast, Normal Gossip. Alex and Rachelle dive deep into the age-old debate over concert spoilers, a debate that’s been turbo-charged by TikTok where over 80 million people watched the first two nights of Taylor Swift's "Eras" The ease of finding a livestream of some of the most expensive concerts in the world raises the question: why go to a concert when you can go on TikTok?This podcast is produced by Se’era Spragley Ricks, R...
2023-04-2243 min
ICYMIHas TikTok Ruined Live Music?On today’s episode, Rachelle is joined by Alex Sujong Laughlin, a supervising producer and co-owner of Defector Media where she makes the podcast, Normal Gossip. Alex and Rachelle dive deep into the age-old debate over concert spoilers, a debate that’s been turbo-charged by TikTok where over 80 million people watched the first two nights of Taylor Swift's "Eras" The ease of finding a livestream of some of the most expensive concerts in the world raises the question: why go to a concert when you can go on TikTok?This podcast is produced by Se’era Spragley Ricks, R...
2023-04-2243 min
Normal GossipPoledancing, book clubs, and gay men's chorus: Your niche gossipWe've been waiting for your niche gossip all season, and you delivered! Five stories of clubs, communities, and small towns, just for you.
Content warning: We always say that no animals are harmed in our stories, but Alex was tired when she picked these and didn't realize that there are actually two harmed animals in these stories -- one dog who dies (off-screen) and one cat who dies. Please forgive, we will learn from our mistakes. We love animals!
Episode transcript here.
You can support Normal Gossip directly bybuying merch or becoming a...
2022-08-2450 min
Normal Gossip | YouTubeTelephone Game with Alex and JustinAlex and Justin spent season 2 playing a little game of telephone with the guests....and kept Kelsey out of the loop. Join us to hear how much one gossip story can change from person to person.
You can support Normal Gossip directly bybuying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.
Episode transcript here.
Follow the show on Instagram @normalgossip, and if you have gossip, email us at normalgossip@defector.com or leave us a voicemail at 26-79-GOSSIP.
Normal Gossip is hosted by Kelsey McKinney (@mckinneykelsey) and...
2022-08-101h 04Normal GossipTelephone Game with Alex and JustinAlex and Justin spent season 2 playing a little game of telephone with the guests....and kept Kelsey out of the loop. Join us to hear how much one gossip story can change from person to person.
You can support Normal Gossip directly bybuying merch or becoming a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com.
Episode transcript here.
Follow the show on Instagram @normalgossip, and if you have gossip, email us at normalgossip@defector.com or leave us a voicemail at 26-79-GOSSIP.
Normal Gossip is hosted by Kelsey McKinney (@mckinneykelsey) and...
2022-08-101h 04
Oh, I Like ThatBeing in Conversation with the Natural World feat. Alex Sujong LaughlinWriter and audio producer Alex Sujong Laughlin is here to guest co-host and we’re talking about hobbies where you grow and make things. We went deep thinking about why some people are drawn to these activities while others (Sally!) are not. Also, Alex shares a bunch of great tips for getting into gardening, composting for beginners and experts, and tons of (non-gardening) ways to be less extractive in your relationship with food and the earth.Get Oh, I Like That merch here! Things we talked about:The podcast Alex produces, Normal Gossip!Plant har...
2022-07-2859 min
WorkingHow Normal Gossip Producer Alex Sujong Laughlin Helps Shape the PodcastThis week, Working producer Cameron Drews talks to Alex Sujong Laughlin, producer of the hit podcast Normal Gossip. In the interview, Alex explains what a producer does and talks about how important it is for producers to have creative input. Then she digs into the process behind Normal Gossip and shares how she and host Kelsey McKinney anonymize the gossip stories and make decisions about which details to tweak and which ones to keep. After the interview, Cameron and co-host June Thomas talk more about what it’s like to be a podcast producer. In the...
2022-06-0555 min
Normal GossipBonus #2: Your FAQ + Some BIG Announcements!Kelsey and Alex answer your most burning questions: How do we make the show? Why did we take a break? WHEN IS SEASON 2 STARTING?
Plus, some big announcements!
Become a Friend or a Friend-of-Friend at supportnormalgossip.com .
Episode transcript here.
Follow the show on Instagram @normalgossip, and if you have gossip, email us at normalgossip@defector.com or leave us a voicemail at 26-79-GOSSIP.
Normal Gossip is hosted by Kelsey McKinney (@mckinneykelsey) and produced by Alex Sujong Laughlin (@alexlaughs).
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org...
2022-05-0455 min
Feeling AsianGhost Out Of The Shell (feat. Alex Sujong Laughlin, Normal Gossip)Alex Sujong Laughlin is a writer and audio producer who has created podcasts for the New York Times, Buzzfeed, and The Washington Post. You might know her recent work on Normal Gossip (a must-listen for nosy lovers of banal gossip)! We talk about biases in newsrooms, knowing your worth, and ghostwriting. Oh, and ghosts. Listen to Alex’s amazing work on Normal Gossip and follow her at @alexlaughs on Twitter and Instagram. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share our podcast, too!
2022-04-271h 05
Normal Gossip | YouTubeSeason 1 BONUS: Your Family GossipWe’re back with a special gossip treat for you! Kelsey is joined by Normal Gossip producer Alex Sujong Laughlin to react to YOUR family gossip stories.
Episode transcript here.
Follow the show on Instagram @normalgossip, and if you have gossip, email us at normalgossip@defector.com or leave us a voicemail at 26-79-GOSSIP.
Normal Gossip is hosted by Kelsey McKinney (@mckinneykelsey) and produced by Alex Sujong Laughlin (@alexlaughs).
2022-04-2054 minNormal GossipSeason 1 BONUS: Your Family GossipWe’re back with a special gossip treat for you! Kelsey is joined by Normal Gossip producer Alex Sujong Laughlin to react to YOUR family gossip stories.
Episode transcript here.
Follow the show on Instagram @normalgossip, and if you have gossip, email us at normalgossip@defector.com or leave us a voicemail at 26-79-GOSSIP.
Normal Gossip is hosted by Kelsey McKinney (@mckinneykelsey) and produced by Alex Sujong Laughlin (@alexlaughs).
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
2022-04-2054 min
The LeadAlex Sujong Laughlin on investing in your passionsAlex Sujong Laughlin paved her own way into podcasting: while working in social media, she taught herself how to produce audio with her own podcast. She went on to create and host podcasts for some of the biggest news brands in the world, including The Washington Post, the New York Times, and Buzzfeed. She joins to talk about investing in your passions, the importance of having your name attached to your work, and two of her current projects: the podcast "Normal Gossip" and her newsletter for Poynter, "The Cohort."
Guest: Alex Sujong Laughlin, writer and audio producer.
2022-02-1621 min
The Pod ClubSpilling Tea with Normal GossipWelcoming Kelsey McKinney and Alex Sujong Laughlin to the Pod Club! In this week’s episode, host Jo Piazza sits down with the host and the producer Normal Gossip to, you know, gossip. Ever since the pandemic left us bored at home, these two dreamed of filling our ears with the low stakes gossip of regular people. Now that the podcast is out, listen to hear how Kelsey and Alex learned to tell a perfect great gossip story and which podcasts inspired them in the process. Their Show:Normal Gossip
2022-02-1626 min
The Greatness with Kareem MaddoxThe Practical and the PossibleAfter learning from Olympians past and present about how they made it, it’s Kareem’s turn in the hot seat. In an intimate conversation with former Olympian and NBC sports commentator Ato Boldon, Kareem reflects on what the Olympic pursuit of the games has taught him about himself. Credits:Josh Bloch- For USG AudioJessica Grimshaw- For USG AudioJennifer Sears- For USG AudioGretta Cohn- Executive ProducerKareem Maddox- Executive Producer, HostAlex Sujong Laughlin - Senior ProducerMitch...
2021-08-1134 minThe Greatness with Kareem MaddoxThe Starting LineIn 2016, the first ever Refugee team competed in the Rio Olympics. But what happens when the stakes of competition are so much higher than a gold medal?Credits:Josh Bloch- For USG AudioJessica Grimshaw- For USG AudioJennifer Sears- For USG AudioGretta Cohn- Executive ProducerKareem Maddox- Executive Producer, HostAlex Sujong Laughlin - Senior ProducerMitchell Johnson - ProducerJess Shane - ProducerGreta Weber - ProducerSara Nics- Executive Editor
2021-08-0426 minThe Greatness with Kareem MaddoxDiplomat in a Bathing SuitEast German Sylvia Gerasch was a swimming prodigy who shattered world records early in her career. But competing without compromising her political freedom meant making it to the Olympics would be many more years in the making. Credits:Josh Bloch- For USG AudioJessica Grimshaw- For USG AudioJennifer Sears- For USG AudioGretta Cohn- Executive ProducerKareem Maddox- Executive Producer, HostAlex Sujong Laughlin - Senior ProducerMitchell Johnson - ProducerJess Shane - ProducerG...
2021-07-2840 minThe Greatness with Kareem MaddoxIt Iz What It IzWhat has a fuzzy blue body, huge red sneakers, and lightning bolt eyebrows? In Atlanta in the 90s, an unusual Olympian came to town and brought a storm of controversy. Credits:Josh Bloch- For USG AudioJessica Grimshaw- For USG AudioJennifer Sears- For USG AudioGretta Cohn- Executive ProducerKareem Maddox- Executive Producer, HostAlex Sujong Laughlin - Senior ProducerMitchell Johnson - ProducerJess Shane - ProducerGreta Weber - ProducerSara N...
2021-07-2136 minThe Greatness with Kareem MaddoxA Game of Momentum: Khalil ThompsonKhalil Thompson had all the potential of a great Olympic fencer. To get there, he just had to conquer one last opponent: himself. Content warning: This episode features some discussion of suicidal ideation. Credits:Josh Bloch- For USG AudioJessica Grimshaw- For USG AudioJennifer Sears- For USG AudioGretta Cohn- Executive ProducerKareem Maddox- Executive Producer, HostAlex Sujong Laughlin - Senior ProducerMitchell Johnson - ProducerJess Shane - ProducerSara Nics- Executive Editor
2021-07-1433 min