The Power of PR and Placebo: Episode 22

On milestone episode 22 of Washed Up, Abigail Cavizo and Colin Mullaney discuss an error that led to #highnoon vodka seltzer being packaged as cans of Astro Vibe #Celsius and distributed in select states across the US—until eventually recalled. We conduct our own independent taste test (of unaffected drinks from each brand) to see if any unsuspecting consumers might be duped by this mistake.Last week at an event featuring Senators #TimKaine (D-VA) and #RandPaul (R-KY), Colin had the chance to hear the Senators make a case against #tariffs unilaterally imposed by President #Trump. Trump's use of the emergency powers is yet another example of propaganda we're not falling for.Finally, #SydneySweeney attracted the ire of left-leaning America, for an #AmericanEagle jeans ad gone "wrong." Knowing what we do about the effort behind #marketing and advertising campaigns, was this whole controversy intentional (as so many are)?All opinions are our own, and do not reflect those of any institution or affiliation, past or present. This episode was recorded on August 3, 2025.