- 18
- Episodes
- 2025
- First episode
About Social Sleuth
Social Sleuth. Exploring the ever-captivating culture of the web. Here at Social Sleuth, we investigate and create space for dialogue surrounding the cultural impacts of the things we share on the internet. Each month I sit down with a special guest to talk about what we share, why we share it, and what it says about us as an online society. New episodes every 17th of the month. kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com/s/the-social-sleuth?utm_medium=podcast)
- Publisher
- Kenny
- Category
- society & culture · society & culture
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 3 Jan 2025
- Latest episode
- 17 Jul 2026
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
17 Jul 2026
normalized abnormality w/ Jarrett Moore
Memes, internet culture, video essays, and the blurred lines between perception and reality collide in this episode of Social Sleuth. I sit down with Jarrett Moore — stand-up comedian, video essayist, and self-described internet tourist — to dissect the weird world wide web and return to the show’s roots of exploring comedy, self-expression, and surveillance. Jarrett walks us through his viral video essays on Cultural Nihilism and the Rise of the Grifter and Military Propaganda in the Digital Age, the iterative power of memes, the evolution of stand-up comedy on streaming platforms, and the dangers of incel culture and online echo chambers. We also dive into AI’s growing influence on cultural patterns, the manipulation of perception, the normalization of abnormality, digital regulation, and the complex intersection of online behavior and real-life consequences. A funny, sharp, and unflinching look at how memes, media, and AI are reshaping societal narratives and individual reality. Topics: memes, internet culture, video essays, stand-up comedy, military propaganda, cultural nihilism, incels, echo chambers, AI, social commentary, perception, reality, social media, normalization, regulation, digital landscape, online behavior, manipulation, societal impact Get full access to Kenny’s Substack at kennyc402.substack.com/subscribe (https://kennyc402.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)
17 Jun 2026
pushing politics w/ Emily Lowan
"Fight the oligarchs, fund our future." Online culture, grassroots organizing, and provincial politics collide in this episode of Social Sleuth. I sit down with Emily Lowan, leader of the BC Green Party, to talk about her leadership campaign, the evolution of internet culture, and what happens when online energy meets the realities of the democratic process. Emily walks us through the challenges of the new member verification process, the balance between online accessibility and democratic integrity, and how the BC Greens operate as a movement vehicle working alongside other social movements. We also get into the urgent issue of AI data centres and the case for a moratorium, the push to lower the voting age, the alarming trend of US billionaires buying up BC farmland, and why a wealth tax on billionaires could help fund the services people actually need. A grounded look at what it takes to turn online political engagement into grassroots organizing, transparency, and real democratic action. Topics: BC Green Party, Emily Lowan, leadership campaign, political engagement, online culture, youth activism, verification process, democratic integrity, social media strategy, grassroots organizing, AI data centers, AI data centres, social media regulation, voting age, farmland buyouts, political activism, transparency, wealth tax, youth engagement This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 May 2026
the web 2.0 w/ My Mom
Trends, Algorithms, & Trust In this episode of Social Sleuth, I am joined by my mom once again! As a belated Mother’s Day episode I sit down with my mom to ask her questions about the current culture of the web. Her feed, Trust Online, Clavicular, Sydney Sweeney, and Public Perception. She’s a good sport and this episode is full of laughs, bloopers, and real talk - way more light-hearted and lively than usual! Join us in embracing that 2016 is SO BACK! Also: Social Sleuth will still be available on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/4cnx28O), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2UG2SDzlCzV9cXZLtpKT0q?si=5cc1c5691ee2474e&ref=kennyc402.com), YouTube (https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLS3eFi8W4J56CE2zBltwCD6nkrYAAgKuC&si=9F05b74Ux-1Rztu0), or whatever app you use. If you listen directly through Substack, it may look a bit different – just know Social Sleuth is active. I am migrating off Substack in stages. More updates coming soon. In the meantime, KennyC402.com (http://KennyC402.com) is LIVE. And consider sharing this episode.. internet culture, social media trends, memes, political discourse, media consumption, celebrity influence, online trends, social media algorithms, media fatigue, misinformation
17 Apr 2026
psychotropic profit w/ Jamie Brownlee & Kevin Walby
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I am joined by Jamie Brownlee (https://carleton.ca/law/people/jamie-brownlee/) & Kevin Walby (https://www.uwinnipeg.ca/criminal-justice/faculty-staff/kevin-walby.html), authors of “Psychedelic Capitalism”, a book that is critical of the current psychedelic industry, identifies its faults, and explores a better, less conforming future. Jamie and Kevin unpack the so-called ‘Psychedelic Renaissance’ and how big money is swallowing up the psychedelic space. We talk about corporate takeover, the push for medicalization, and how power, inequality, and surveillance are baked into this ‘new’ but quickly fading boom. Underscoring that this is not about love and healing, but rather capturing every market. Psychedelic Capitalism, can be ordered here → Fernwood Publishing - Critical Books for Critical Thinkers (https://fernwoodpublishing.ca/book/psychedelic-capitalism) Great Resource → Centre for Access to Information & Justice on X (https://x.com/CAIJ_UW?s=20) And consider sharing this episode.. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 Mar 2026
digital age activism w/ Chris Hurl & Kevin Walby
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I am joined by Chris Hurl (https://btlbooks.com/authors/view/chris-hurl) & Kevin Walby (https://btlbooks.com/authors/view/kevin-walby), two of the four authors of “Mobilizing Data for Justice: A Guide to Activism in the Digital Age”. Published with Between the Lines, Chris, Kevin, Elena Rowan (https://btlbooks.com/authors/view/elena-rowan), and Marius Senneville (https://btlbooks.com/authors/view/marius-senneville) seek to offer a toolbox for mobilizing data for justice - rooted in activist experiences and knowledge. Chris and Kevin each showcase their unique perspectives and knowledge over the range of dynamics within social movements and mobilizing in the digital age - exploring how social movements utilize data and techniques such as visceralization to fight for justice, navigate surveillance, and build collective power. Each underscoring their role in bringing these existing experiences, dilemmas, and solutions, together - to serve future social movement communities and act as an archive as the digital context rapidly evolves. This is also the first (but not last) episode to host two guests! I have to say, more is more, when it comes to knowledge and expertise. ⭐️ Mobilizing Data for Justice, can be ordered here → Between the Lines - (https://btlbooks.com/book/mobilizing-data-for-justice)Publishing (https://btlbooks.com/book/mobilizing-data-for-justice) Checkout their website, Here (https://datajusticehub.ca), and the Podcast → And consider sharing this episode... This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 Feb 2026
trad-baiting w/ Edwin Hodge
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I chat with Dr. Edwin Hodge, adjunct professor in Sociology at the University of Victoria, about the wild world of online extremism and conspiracy theories. We discuss how once-underground networks have gone global, the realities of moderating online spaces, and the influence of conspiracy theories like QAnon. Edwin breaks down Gamergate as a key turning point where internet culture collided with politics, and I question him about the seemingly symbiotic rise of Christian Nationalism and Trad Wife content online. The digital landscape keeps shifting, and not always in a good way, so to possibly avoid further enshittification, give this one a listen. Find Edwin’s work (https://uvic.academia.edu/EdwinHodge) ← here And consider sharing this post… This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 Jan 2026
making meaning w/ Loren Gaudet
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I sit down with Dr. Loren Gaudet, an Assistant Professor at the University of Victoria, to talk about rhetoric. I ask Loren about her expertise and research in the rhetoric of health & medicine, and science & technology. The digital space is a new frontier for meaning-making, and so much about how we think about health and wellness is entrenched in our digital habits—for better or worse. It’s better to ask, “Who is persuading whom of what, and what are the means of persuasion?” — Judy Segal, than ask nothing at all. Find an article from Loren here: “Health awareness as genre: the exigence of preparedness in cancer awareness campaigns and critical-illness insurance marketing” (https://mh.bmj.com/content/48/1/9) And consider sharing this post… *THIS EPISODE: Explores the nature of memes, the interdisciplinary study of rhetoric, and the complexities of health and medicine rhetoric; Shares personal experiences, academic journeys, and the challenges of engaging in meaningful online discourse; And touches on the impact of media environments on understanding and beliefs, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and communication. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 Nov 2025
modern media w/ Ryan Jespersen
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I sit down with Ryan Jespersen, the host of Real Talk, to unpack his move from corporate to independent media. Along the way, we dissect ‘cancel’ culture for what it is and highlight the unassuming yet profound ways Ryan champions mental health advocacy. Ryan offers real talk throughout this episode – underscoring how authentic, vulnerable, and sometimes uncomfortable dialogue is necessary and rewarding. Find Ryan Here -> Real Talk | Ryan Jespersen (https://www.ryanjespersen.com) And consider sharing this post… This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 Oct 2025
nurturing nostalgia w/ Andy Sahlstrom
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I am joined by Andy, an interactive technology engineer, inventor, and kinetic artist - who from what I gathered is a pretty cool dude. I invite Andy into the conversation of Internet Culture, discussing nostalgia, the evolution of his project Shampoooty, and the impacts of the digital landscape personally and socially. This episode offered a point of reflection that I can’t wait to unpack in Social Sleuth Diaries #2. Until then, enjoy. Find more from him, here → Andy Sahlstrom (https://andysahlstrom.com) & Shampoooty (https://www.instagram.com/shampoooty) And consider sharing this post… This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 Sept 2025
creative code w/ Eli James
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I dive into the more philosophical aspects of art and AI. AI is a multifaceted topic, with many critiques circulating the web. Rather than recounting these grievances, I sit down with Eli James, an artist, to discuss the emotional and personal dimensions of generative AI. I encourage AI enthusiasts and critics alike to listen to this episode with an open mind. AI, “a tool of the future”, comes with ethical dilemmas that need attention. Check out some of Eli’s creations here -> Faxanudu on Spotify (applewebdata://06221757-DDD3-4DCF-8DF8-4248860B5E78/Faxanudu%20on%20Spotify) Consider sharing this episode, And feel free to jump in on the discussion. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 Aug 2025
ecocide w/ Bill Carroll
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I discuss the crisis of ecocide with Dr. William K. Carroll. The climate crisis spans across culture, even that of the internet. You’ve seen the campaigns, the greenwashing ads, and the click-tivism invites. It can be overwhelming, alarming, demoralizing, and maybe even frustrating - But today Bill offers a recentering of focus and explains the systems/structures that have gotten us here today. *Spoiler. it’s not those same ones that will get us out. Bill’s New Book -> Refusing Ecocide: From Fossil Capitalism to a Livable World (https://www.routledge.com/Refusing-Ecocide-From-Fossil-Capitalism-to-a-Liveable-World/Carroll/p/book/9781032536422) And the Corporate Mapping Project (https://www.corporatemapping.ca) that he Co-directed with Shannon Daub. Perhaps you’d like to share this episode… This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 Jul 2025
techno intolerance w/ Lina
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I reflect and seek advice from Lina in navigating some of today’s most pressing digital movements - calling out Big Tech and the weird world wide web along the way. Addressing the elephant in the room we unpack what can only be identified as the next stage of digital bureaucracy - without discounting our own complacency, I am reminded things are complicated, and Lina brings the nuance centre stage. Find more from her, here → Lina Maria Clevenger (https://linktr.ee/la.gaso.lina) And consider sharing this post… This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 May 2025
surveillance w/ Midori Ogasawara
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I discuss all things surveillance with Dr. Midori Ogasawara. Bringing it back to where it all began - I am honoured to have Midori as a guest here on Social Sleuth, given her classes are what really got me thinking about the topics I discuss on this podcast! We talk about some of her latest work and lay down the hard truths of the digital and surveilled world we live in. Don’t worry there is hope - we just have to act. Find more from her, here → Midori Ogasawara (https://www.uvic.ca/socialsciences/sociology/faculty-staff/faculty/ogasawara-midori.php) Midori’s article mentioned in the episode → “In the Heart of Liberal Democracy” (https://www.erudit.org/en/journals/survsoc/2025-v23-n1-survsoc09985/1117537ar/) Or consider sharing this post… This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 Apr 2025
BookTok talks w/ Sydney
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I discuss all things BookTok with Sydney, the creator behind Bloody Brilliant Books. Getting outside my area of expertise to dive into a very high traction area of the web - BookTok, which encompasses short form video content (specifically on TikTok) aimed at recommending books to fellow readers. We talk about the benefits, for both readers and authors alike, and discuss a bit of the controversy within the community and industry. Find more from Sydney, here —> Bloody Brilliant Books (https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Flinktr.ee%2Fbloodybrilliantbooks%3Futm_source%3Dlinktree_profile_share%26ltsid%3D31768bd7-0da5-41bb-a7c1-b43491db2cc5%26fbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafnJkGL47mzZFd_yIMua1C3H0JNsEUi4piA5sAFkcKgiB66o5Gk-TABev-Usw_aem_WER4giV2sottzPJaHyKIwQ&e=AT1oXG25ZUa6onPkx9RefjuI0IeeBxjGFhdxcYPGS5Mlrhzt3HZ-VRW4zdE82x5nS1cys7An3c8Vk-dz4G8tziGDffup1uB8cmzbBg) Or consider sharing this post… This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
18 Mar 2025
the web w/ my Mom
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I discuss all things interwebs with nobody else than MY MOM! We hope you enjoy our genuine conversation that takes many side quests - parenting, growing-up, surveillance, wellness, if it’s on the web we probably mentioned it. that may be a bit dramatic… but so is this episode. with love, Kenny. p.s. the meme in question. Want to hear more episodes like this? I also take on these topics in a more serious fashion.. it’s called range. check it out. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
18 Feb 2025
(mis)information w/ Matthew Facciani
In this episode of Social Sleuth, I discuss all things misinformation with Matthew Facciani, a social scientist who works at the University of Notre Dame, studying information systems, media literacy and how people interact with AI. Matthew is engaged with so much of this growing body of research, both in his own work and that of others in the field. It was such a treat to talk about a slew of topics, including social identity, media literacy, and political polarization - all of which benefitted from his informed and balanced perspective. Find Matthew Facciani (https://www.matthewfacciani.com/) Social Sleuth (https://thesocialsleuth.com/) OR: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
18 Jan 2025
internet (culture) w/ Aidan Walker
In this episode of Social Sleuth I sit down with Aidan Walker, a writer, content creator, and internet culture researcher. THIS GUY MEMES and there is a lot to take away from this conversation about surveillance, algorithms, the future of memes and much much more. Find Aidan Walker (https://linktr.ee/aidanwalker1) Social Sleuth (https://thesocialsleuth.com/) OR: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
3 Jan 2025
decoding memes w/ Marnus
In this inaugural episode of Social Sleuth, I dive into the complexity of memes with a long-time friend, Marnus. A fun conversation to say the least, and one I hope makes you think a bit about how you consume content online. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit kennyc402.substack.com (https://kennyc402.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
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