Episode

Why the News Feels So Overwhelming (And What It’s Doing to You

Podcast
Unspun
Published
Apr 28, 2026
Duration seconds
1905
Processing state
not_requested
Canonical source
https://mswmedia.com/show/unspun/
Audio
https://pdst.fm/e/dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/audio3.redcircle.com/episodes/37b07a39-7dab-48f2-87de-b66ccefe5e27/stream.mp3
JSON
/v1/public/podcasts/unspun-6601575/episodes/why-the-news-feels-so-overwhelming-and-what-it-s-doing-to-you
Markdown
/podcast/unspun-6601575/why-the-news-feels-so-overwhelming-and-what-it-s-doing-to-you.md

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Summary

In this episode of UnSpun, learn the hidden manipulation behind the news. From TV journalism of the '80s, with “if it bleeds, it leads,” to today’s algorithm-driven outrage, news has evolved into a system designed to capture attention. I walk through the research on clickbait and emotional manipulation to explain how it shapes not what you believe and how you act. Topics include: The psychology of clickbait and the “curiosity gap.” Why outrage spreads faster than information How fear and anger drive engagement The illusion of knowledge in modern media What sensationalism does to democracy Practical ways to take back control of your information diet Stay sharp, truth seekers! Follow DrSturg on Bluesky Check out DrSturg's book that teaches YOU how to get played less by the media for less than $25. Episode art by Mike Licht. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy