Is everything a scam now?

Kristen and Hazel dive into the everyday things that feel like total scams. From credit scores and tipping culture to extended warranties, corporate promotions, and the wedding industry, they break down the systems that make people question whether modern life is just one big upsell. Some of these “scams” are funny. Some are frustrating. And some reveal bigger problems with the way certain industries are designed. Along the way they talk about: Why award shows sometimes feel more like marketing than recognition The strange logic behind credit scores and debt Why internal promotions can sometimes hold people back financially The reality of tipping culture today Upselling tactics from internet providers Membership models that rely on people forgetting to cancel Wedding industry markups and why big weddings aren’t always worth it Influencer marketing and the lack of protections in the industry It’s a mix of hot takes, personal experiences, and the kind of conversations that make you say, “Wait… that actually is kind of a scam.” If you’ve ever questioned the systems we all just accept as normal, this episode is for you. Chapters 00:00 Technology and Parking Tickets 10:41 Internal Promotions and Corporate Practices 23:52 Insurance Timelines and Extended Warranties 37:37 Influencer Industry 44:35 Membership Models