This podcast is really surface level, stating “this is bad” and “don’t do it”, with a lot of “we would never” and “we’re so great”. They mentioned their Patreon in this latest episode and it put me over the edge—like WHO is paying for this content? But what made me unsubscribe and write the review is the host saying if we wanted more of Duped in our “ear holes”. One host in particular just has a really grating way of speaking (intonation and word choice) that makes the podcast actively unenjoyable.

I was very excited for this podcast because I always felt that those online "coaches" were nothing but hacks. I also love podcasts about businesses and scams. Unfortunately these experts don't really dive into it. It feels very superficial and more like them just patting each other on the backs. Also, the talking style is really hard to listen to. One host especially talks so slow with such an unnatural inflection in her speech that I just can't even give the podcast a chance any longer.

I am an atheist and say: you are doing the Lord’s work

A must listen for anyone considering hiring an online business, coach, mentor, etc. It’s essential to learn about these marketing and sales tactics (manipulation) in order to make informed decisions.

First of all, I am grateful for this podcast and the advocacy that is so desperately needed in relation to the coaching industry! BTW I use that term very loosely ;-) Second, in regards to the entitlement of people or “coaches” in expecting to be given the remedy or blueprint to fix their very unique situation or problem… I want to say this: THE ENTITLEMENT IS ASTOUNDING!! The lack of self awareness is also mind blowing. However, is it all that shocking when we think about how there are no ethical or business standards, and a deep seeded cycle of harmful practices within the “coaching industry” that this is the generalized response of many? Many of the people who have been victimized by these scams are likely in dire need of professional help whether that is business, mental health, etc. Additionally, take accountability for yourself! There is no magic formula to making a successful business. Anyone who says they have the ability to give you such is either 1. a liar/scammer, or 2. indoctrinated into a cult/scam/MLM. Anyone ever heard of due diligence? This is where that comes in. It’s your responsibility as a consumer to do your homework before starting or “investing” into anything. The resources are out there for consumers if you look! I will also add that if people do their due diligence they would be way less susceptible to falling prey to these things! Finally, don’t let the shame and guilt keep you stuck in these situations! Many of these coaching scams are glorified Ponzi schemes or cults. NXIVM type stuff. They will ruin you, your life and take every last penny from you if you allow it. Free yourself and your family! I could go on and on but overall these resources and conversations being had on this podcast are desperately needed. Thank you.

I wish this podcast wasn’t necessary but it’s one of my most recommended shows. After being duped by some of the big name web celebs, this podcast finally helped me forgive myself for falling for their manipulative tactics & cult- like practices. I appreciate that Maggie & Michelle aren’t naming names in Duped because it’s an industry wide problem & I would hate for them to get slammed with a defamation suit & have to stop producing the show. So good I joined their Patreon to show my support.

I love the concept of the show and to that end I’ve listened and listened - waiting for hosts to “get there.” But sadly they never go to the meat of the topics. They just talk around them. Based on what’s said here (and what’s not said) I’m not convinced either host is an expert in their field.

So deeply enjoying the exploration of so many different things with critical thinking in regards to online business but just information generally.

For the most part, this podcast is great and talks about A LOT of problematic stuff in the industry (and also in business as a whole). A little more nuance would make it even better, or even just acknowledging that the sweeping statements wouldn’t apply in all circumstances. For instance, vague marketing promises about helping clients to increase impact aren’t all bad. “Impact” will mean different things to different people, and it’s the job of the coach or consultant to help the client figure out what that is so that they’ll actually implement the work of the program. We have to ask ourselves, what is the point of a bunch of programs with no promise that people buy and still don’t use.

I was excited to see the premise and title of this show, as it hits home for so many who have been "duped" by slick online marketing. Unfortunately, the show is another one-sided, narrow-minded, woke leftist podcast that would leave any conservative feeling attacked, misunderstood, dismissed and unheard. I wish they could leave politics out of podcasts.

I wish I’d found this podcast 7 months ago, BEFORE I had “invested” $2K in an online coaching program, one of many that prey on solopreneurs in my field. Still, it helps to understand the sales tactics and biases explained in this podcast to make sense of how a smart person can still get so duped.

This podcast is a must listen for online entrepreneurs! I really enjoy the format of the episodes and learn something in every episode :)

I’m a long time fan of Michelle Mazur and her Rebel Uprising podcast. I’ve been listening to this podcast since the beginning and I can’t believe I never wrote a review! These ladies do a great job diving into the complicated issues of doing business online and even more complex issues or being a consumer of online businesses. As an online business owner myself I so appreciate that Michelle and Maggie are unearthing and exposing some really yucky stuff happening in the online space. They take a new look at some things you might think is just “the way it is.” Podcasts like this are necessary to change a community from within.

Maggie and Michelle are knowledgeable in their field and their conversations are thought-provoking. If you own your own biz and want to avoid the shady sales practices that have overtaken online courses about how to sell or gain clients, this podcast is a treasure trove of practical, useful info. I like how they highlight what persuasion truly is and the historical roots of persuasion, as well as tips for using persuasive techniques correctly and ethically. The only thing that I don’t care for here is how Michelle is often talking while laughing. She makes an important point and laughs straight through the next minute, while continuing to speak. She has wise, helpful things to say - but this habit lessens the impact of her points.

So glad to hear you talk about what is often in my head! I can’t tell you the frustration I feel when I see business coaches sharing quotes with no source and playing it off as if it is their own. This podcast gives permission to think critically and to do the research of those you learn from. Ask who your teachers learned from! I just learned that a methodology my mentor was teaching was created by an 80’s cult leader. I’m out!!! Thanks for this series!

I’m really enjoying the shows. So far I’ve listened to the first 2 episodes and my only “criticism” is the host’s assumption that we all understand what is being discussed without examples. Some of it is quite obvious but other things are more obscure and I have no idea what “bro marketing” is. Sometimes I feel like there is only criticism of time-honored marketing strategies (such as creating urgency) but no advice as to an alternative, which would be helpful for people like me who are new to the online business world. However, I’m very appreciative to find out about things to watch out for and I do find value in these podcasts and am looking forward to binging all of them.

My business is a mix of online/in person therapy work, but almost all of my marketing is online. I really appreciate the information in this podcast when it comes to considering my own marketing, but I also appreciate it as a consumer of business coaching services. I have absolutely been duped and encourage therapists interested in building private practices to properly research any business coach — even if they are a therapist themselves. This podcast will help!

The side-eye is strong with this first episode ladies. Courses. Scaling. Be transformational, but be sure to include extractive economics in the mix by not paying your staff. Thanks for bringing the heat in season 2.

This podcast is taking all the crazy thoughts in my head and making sense of them (and making me feel less crazy by the minute)! Thank you so much for having these conversations and teaching us the underlying principles of how we’re getting duped. This is an invaluable conversation for every online business owner to help them be more discerning about who they learn from. And you’ve motivated me to have my own voice be heard on this outside my little trusted circle. Thank you!!

Y’all are the best. I’ve so enjoyed season 1. It’s been an inspiring wake up ride. I’m looking forward to season 2.

Listening to every episode and re-writing my sales pages as I hear Michelle and Maggie point out all the prevalent advice that doesn’t add up in online biz. Love the use of a podcast to teach and call everyone up to do better. Thank you! Recommending to everyone I know.

Duped is a breath of fresh, very honest air in an online landscape filled with disingenuity. I only wish I had found Michelle Mazur and Maggie Patterson BEFORE I invested in business building programs that failed to deliver. They don’t just expose the icky underbelly of the industry, they provide an ethical path forward for values-based business owners who want to operate with integrity.

I feel like I’m at the Emerald City and the curtain just got pulled back to reveal the Wizard. To say this is eye opening is an understatement! I’ve already gone and unsubscribed to so many mailings and other podcasts after listening to just a couple of episodes. Keep up the great work in helping others no longer be duped!

I want to love this show because I do love Maggie’s rants on social media about all this stuff! I’ve learned so much from her. But, so much of this podcast dialogue feels like it’s just complaining and that no one can “win” with the strict rules for online business that the hosts are putting forward. Not all “marketing tactics” in online business are bad... For example: What’s wrong with deadlines in launches when you have a cart close/cart open business model? If you only open the doors a few times a year because you don’t want to be in launch mode 24/7, then there is REAL time scarcity during your launch. So, bonuses and count down timers make so much sense. But, the hosts seemed to be critical of this regardless of the situation. Or... if you’re doing a beta launch then perhaps there is an actual “limited spots” for the program. Again, real scarcity. And for a real reason of wanting to sample the program with a smaller group of students. And I’ve purchased a bunch of online courses over the years, I’ve loved most of them! And got a fast refund on the one I didn’t. But, I have never been in a course that had a non-disparagement clause. Or anything you had to sign at all. And I know I’ve joined the courses that are more “bro-marketing” and from some of the people you’re talking about here. Just wish there was less judging and more observation that some of this isn’t so black and white! But love the concept and I appreciate Maggie so much!

Dr. Mazur’s wit and wisdom have helped me I learn harmful ploys that I’ve been learning (and paying handsomely for) from experts for yeeeeears. Following her encouragement to be more aware has led me to curate my own business practices that feel much more authentic and sales that feel supportive instead of coercive.

This podcast is sorely needed. The online marketing world is rife with people using the same recycled manipulation tactics to gain people's trust in a fake way to make as much money as possible to lead an "aspirational life." I'm thankful for both Michelle and Maggie tackling this topic using their years of knowledge and research.

I wish this pod had existed when I was starting out 6 years ago. I got sucked in to so much comparisonitis! And confusion. I hope other people find this show early on - particularly if they are building legit businesses online.

Dr Michelle and Maggie bring up so many great facts that you as a business owner can not afford to NOT consider before you invest in your next vendor or course.

This podcast will make you think and re-evaluate your own marketing strategies (in a good way!)

It’s fascinating to listen in on the hosts’ conversations. I just listened to the first two episodes back to back and am eager for the whole series to be released

I love their honesty, transparency, and their willingness to call out bad business practices and explain why they’re harmful. Definitely need more podcasts like this!

There is serious smoke and mirrors in the celebrity/guru entrepreneur space and Maggie & Michelle are shining a big spotlight on it. Thank you both for breaking things down and sharing specifics for what to watch out for!