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The Cost of Culture Podcast

The Cost of Culture Podcast

By: Christopher Harrison & Michael Jordan Patrick
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About this listen

Culture isn’t free — someone’s always paying. The Cost of Culture digs into the price tags behind the movements, art, and ideas that define our world. From fashion to fandoms, politics to pop, this podcast asks the hard questions about value, influence, and who really benefits when culture shifts.


© 2026 The Cost of Culture Podcast
Politics & Government Social Sciences
Episodes
  • "The Rise of AI Influencers & The Price of “Perfect” Culture"
    Jan 9 2026

    AI influencers are everywhere — landing major brand deals, dominating timelines, and reshaping what “influence” even means. But behind the perfectly curated images and flawless personalities lies a much bigger question: what is this really costing the culture?

    In Episode 2 of The Cost of Culture, Christopher breaks down the rapid rise of AI influencers and how they’re changing the creator economy in real time. From brands choosing digital perfection over real people, to creators losing opportunities, to audiences struggling to tell what’s real anymore — this episode explores the business, the backlash, and the future of authenticity in culture.

    We talk about:

    • Why brands are betting big on AI influencers
    • How real creators are being replaced — or forced to adapt
    • The cultural consequences of perfection-driven influence
    • What happens next as AI and human creativity collide

    Plus, a quick shoutout to today’s sponsor, Pair of Thieves — use code BC-ChristopherH368 for 15% off your first order.

    🎧 Tap in and join the conversation — because culture always has a cost

    Pair of Thieves
    Pair or Thieves makes basics-underwear, socks, and tees-built for comfort, fit, and everyday wear.

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Support the show

    Thanks for listening to The Cost of Culture.

    If this episode made you stop and think, make sure you follow and subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations.

    New episodes explore music, fashion, tech, trends, and the moments shaping how we live—and what they’re actually costing us.

    You can find The Cost of Culture on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

    If you want to support the show:

    • Leave a rating or review
    • Share this episode with someone who’s part of the culture
    • Follow along for clips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content

    Because culture isn’t free.

    And the question is always—
    what are we really paying for?

    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
  • What Are We Really Paying For?
    Jan 7 2026

    Episode One (Pilot): What Are We Really Paying For?

    Culture is everywhere—but nothing about it is free.

    In this pilot episode of The Cost of Culture, we break down what it really costs to stay plugged in, relevant, and “in the know.” From trends that move faster than we can process, to the pressure of always keeping up, this episode sets the foundation for the conversations to come.

    We’re not here to cancel culture or glorify it—we’re here to question it.

    What are we trading for attention?
    What does relevance actually cost?
    And when does participation start to feel like pressure?

    This pilot episode introduces the mission of the podcast: to look at music, fashion, tech, hype, and internet culture through a more honest lens—and ask whether what we’re consuming is worth what it’s costing us.

    Pair of Thieves Promo Code

    BC-ChristopherH368 for 15% off your first order

    Comfy Tees….Socks….and Undies @Pairofthieves.com or use the mobile app on The App Store or Google Play Store.

    Thank you 🙌🏾

    Pair of Thieves
    Pair or Thieves makes basics-underwear, socks, and tees-built for comfort, fit, and everyday wear.

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Support the show

    Thanks for listening to The Cost of Culture.

    If this episode made you stop and think, make sure you follow and subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations.

    New episodes explore music, fashion, tech, trends, and the moments shaping how we live—and what they’re actually costing us.

    You can find The Cost of Culture on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

    If you want to support the show:

    • Leave a rating or review
    • Share this episode with someone who’s part of the culture
    • Follow along for clips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content

    Because culture isn’t free.

    And the question is always—
    what are we really paying for?

    Show More Show Less
    4 mins
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