The Hard Shoulder The Hard Shoulder

Do you still use Reddit?

Sep 30, 2026 · 6m

Summary

Kira Kelly and Shane Coleman welcome journalist Cirse Hanley to discuss the enduring appeal of Reddit in the age of AI. Hanley argues that the platform’s old-school, anonymous forum structure fosters genuine community and helpfulness, contrasting it with the negativity and performative nature of modern social media. They share anecdotes of users finding niche advice and camaraderie, highlighting how Reddit remains a unique space for connection without the pressure of personal branding or viral metrics.

Topics discussed

Show intro and guest introduction Why the host prefers Reddit over AI for answers Reddit's longevity and old-school interface Anonymity and lack of video features on Reddit Comparison of community tone with other platforms Example of supportive advice in a car thread Discussion on why Reddit feels less performative The role of anonymity in reducing embarrassment Lack of viral metrics and follower culture Popular subreddits like AITA and What Is This Levity and niche knowledge in user interactions Closing remarks and listener contact details
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