310: The Bait & Switch Complex
From Conspirituality by Derek Beres, Matthew Remski, Julian Walker
May 28, 2026 · 1h 6m
About this episode
The episode explores modern examples of bait and switch tactics in social media and politics.
In the early 20th century, some retailers would advertise a product at an attractively low price to lure customers into the store, claim the item was out of stock or of poor quality then pressure customers to buy a more expensive alternative. The practice became known in the public vernacular as "bait and switch" in the 1920s. This week, we look at three modern bait and switches pertinent to our beat. First, Julian looks at “free speech patriot” Chud the Builder’s slimy social media tactics. Then Derek investigates RFK Jr’s SNAP benefits now you see them, now you don’t. Finally, Matthew looks at how Mark Carney is bait and switching the Canadian political body. Show Notes SNAP Restrictions Raise Prices for U.S. Retailers and Consumers, Rather Than Improving Diets State-Level SNAP Food Restrictions: Assessing Long-Term Profitability and Policy Risks for Grocery Retailers SNAP Enforcement Changes Risk Limiting Food Access for Vulnerable Communities USDA outlines retailer compliance for state SNAP waivers EBT, SNAP, and Food Retail Compliance: A Complete Explainer for Small Grocery and Convenience Store Owners FRAC Urges USDA to End Harmful SNAP Food Restriction Waivers Bank of…
People in this episode
Guests: Julian, Derek, Matthew
Topics covered
- bait and switch
- social media tactics
- SNAP benefits
- political strategies
- consumer behavior
- food access
Keywords
- bait and switch
- free speech patriot
- SNAP benefits
- Mark Carney
- consumer tactics
- political body
- food access
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: USDA, Bank of England, Amnesty International Canada, Government of Canada, CBC News, Parliamentary Budget Officer
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