Reading Through Our Hate Comments
Summary
To mark their seventh anniversary, hosts Kate and Sophie Torber reflect on their personal growth and the evolution of Outspoken since 2019. They read through a mix of positive and scathing listener reviews, addressing common criticisms about their tone, editing, and comparisons to the podcast Shameless. The episode also covers feedback on their on-air arguments and personal updates, while the hosts discuss the mental health impact of anonymous online feedback. They conclude by expressing gratitude to their loyal audience and acknowledging the changing landscape of influencer culture.
Topics discussed
7th Anniversary: Nostalgia and life changes since 2019
Intro to the 'Mean Reviews' segment and early fangirl era
Reading a positive review from an OG listener
2019 reviews: Comparisons to Shameless and early growth
2020 reviews: Criticism of tone and 'tearing down' women
Technical issues: The viral ad loop and editing complaints
Feedback on personal updates: Weddings and mundane chat
Pronunciation errors and 'try-hard' celebrity critiques
2022 reviews: Age shaming and the 'reality show' effect
On-mic arguments: Sharing old clips and listener reactions
Mispronunciations, obscure influencers, and anonymous reviewers
Recent reviews: 'Get a real job' and content criticism
Specific grievances: Bali, Tammy Hembrough, and journalism claims
2025 reviews: 'Be nicer to Sophie' and internal dynamics
The carpet cleaner incident and current listener requests
Overall ratings: Apple vs Spotify and the psychology of reviews
Should podcasters read negative reviews? Mental health impact
Conclusion: Nostalgia, gratitude to listeners, and land acknowledgement
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