The Rise of Pickleball: How a Niche Game Became a Global Phenomenon

From AI Influencers and Mini Food Baking, to ASMR and Sleep Hackers -- subcultures are at the heart of our cultural experiences. In this episode Alexis Gay and Dr. Marcus Collins discuss their favorite moments and learnings from Subcultural.

Can a backyard kingdom challenge the status quo? Listen as Alexis explores Australia’s vibrant micronation subculture, where self-declared rulers are staking a claim to autonomy. Through an interview with Emperor George Cruickshank of the Empire of Atlantium, we dive into how these microstates challenge conventional ideas of governance and nationhood.out the game’s surging popularity, and how influencers helped elevate it from local courts to international prominence.

How did pickleball conquer the sports world? Once a 1960s backyard invention, pickleball has exploded into a major sport with international recognition. In this episode, Alexis talks with Jennifer Lucore, author of The History of Pickleball, and pickleball comedian Lamont Ferguson, about the game’s surging popularity, and how influencers helped elevate it from local courts to international prominence.

Can Excel be a sport? Barbara Mauric breaks down how the art of organizing data has transformed into an arena of competition, where pivot tables and formulas are the ultimate tools for victory.

What is Afrobeats? We look at genre's roots and impact on the global music scene.

How did voguing and ballroom rise from NYC’s queer roots to global prominence? Join Legendary Bronze West as we explore this empowering subculture’s impact and its growth in the UK’s queer communities.

How did a Montreal winter turn Tika the Iggy into a fashion icon? Thomas Shapiro reveals how Tika’s winter sweater led to runway fame and high-profile brand collaborations.

How did pirate radio go from illegal airwaves to online streams? In this episode, we dive deep into the underground history of pirate radio, from its rebellious beginnings to its digital reinvention. Peter Baxter, founder of Hope Street Radio, shares how this once-outlawed form of broadcasting has adapted to legal, community-focused platforms while preserving its subversive spirit.

Can makeup tell a sci-fi story? Afrofuturism uses beauty to craft cosmic looks and imagine ancestral-inspired futures in a Wakandan-like universe.

How did the BeyHive become a global force? In this episode, we explore the evolution of Beyoncé’s devoted fanbase. Dr. Collins interviews Deron Jordan, King of the Beyhive, to discuss Queen B’s influence on pop culture and how this passionate community unites to celebrate her artistry, defend her from critics, and amplify her impact worldwide.