Manufacturing Division: The Outrage Epidemic | The Velvet Rope Society: Jobs, Dating, and the New Elitism

Send us Fan MailManufacturing Division: The Outrage Epidemic—Are we actually more divided than ever… or just more online? In this episode, Chloe and Alex dive into the rising tide of polarization—why it feels like every disagreement turns into a moral crusade, and how outrage became the internet’s favorite currency. From “affective polarization” and the collapse of the political center to the “Big Sort” reshaping where we live, they unpack the data behind the dysfunction.The Velvet Rope Society: Jobs, Dating, and the New Elitism—Why does it feel like you need a master’s degree to post memes, a famous last name to get hired, and a six-pack to get a date? Chloe and Alex dive headfirst into the “Velvet Rope Society,” unpacking the rising barriers to entry in careers, culture, and even relationships. From degree inflation and nepotism to résumé-screening algorithms that reject humans before humans even see them, they explore how gatekeeping is reshaping opportunity.If this episode made you think (or laugh), support Poke the Bear on Patreon — every little bit keeps the mics hot 🎙️🐻