Pop Culture Hour: Epstein Files & Influencer Kids: We React to the Internet’s Darkest Moments

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In this raw, wide-ranging Pop Culture Mom Talk episode, Sam and Zara are joined by new co-host Rachel Gibbs (@rachonlife) for an unfiltered conversation about what’s flooding women’s algorithms — and why it feels so overwhelming right now.

They unpack everything from toxic TV relationships like Tell Me Lies to the unsettling ripple effects of the Epstein files, the Blake Lively / Justin Baldoni discourse, and why so many women feel like pop culture has crossed from escapism into emotional overload.

The conversation weaves through influencer ethics, why more moms are pulling their kids off social media, how motherhood changes your tolerance for “hot mom” culture, and what it really means to parent intentionally in a world that feels increasingly unsafe and unregulated. From unaccompanied minors on flights to uncomfortable truths about privacy, power, and who actually gets held accountable — nothing is off-limits.

It’s funny, uncomfortable, validating, and very much a reflection of the moment we’re all living in. If your algorithm feels dark, confusing, or too real lately — you’re not alone.

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Website: https://www.doyouwantthetruthpod.com

Connect with Sam:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/samanthastrom

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@samanthastorms

Connect with Zara:

Zara Hanawalt https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-hanawalt/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@zarahanawalt

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/zarahanawalt/