American Hysteria
282
Episodes
4.4 / 5
Rating

American Hysteria

by chelsey weber-smith

Category
Society & Culture
Frequency
Updated Weekly
Language
English
American Hysteria explores how fantastical thinking has shaped our culture – moral panics, urban legends, hoaxes, crazes, fringe beliefs, and national misunderstandings. Poet-turned-podcaster Chelsey Weber-Smith tells the strangest stories from American history and examines the forces that create the reality we share, and sometimes, the reality we don't.

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Recent Reviews

Historian, storyteller, voice of indignation

DamianJudge6/10/2026

Just finished listening to the Dating Apps episode. I especially like Chelsey’s well researched solo explorations into topics like this. The broad historical sweep of her storytelling is impressive. But I was blown away by her righteous anger at the end of the episode toward the tech bro capitalists who are destroying our lives for profit. If we have to live in this world I’m glad we have people like her for company.

Wholesome and Scary

Dusty Bobo5/30/2026

Two great tastes that go great together

Original, clever and fun!

The Real Mr. 3055/30/2026

Chelsey tackles emotional territory along with assorted myths, ofd history and funny shenanigans. Worth a listen if you’re new to the pod In a world of podcast saturation — which don’t get me wrong I like the options it’s like an endless radio dial — Chelsey is a genuine original. She also shares personal struggles with panic and anxiety. Also, imo going a negative review doesn’t help anyone…I support people who put themselves out there and work hard If I want to take a break or find another pod to check out, I just move on. Why trash anpod at all? Just seems mean-spirited and selfish. If it’s not my cup of tea I don’t need to share every waking thought as to why. Please think about what it how you’d feel if someone publicly trashed you about your job performance. We all have off days or inexplicably turn off customers. Golden rule suggestion. Let’s support media workers as we’d like to be treated.

Love it

kjfdg5/28/2026

I’ve been listening for years, and love the info, style of presentation, and Chelsea’s personality.

Great show

Karen not-the-meme5/26/2026

Wow.. to the last couple of reviews, who rates an entire show on one topic or comment you don't like? Deal with your anger issues. This is a well-researched, well written and well presented show.