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The Live Auction App Where People Can Bid ‘Til They’re Broke

Aug 14, 2026 · 27m

Summary

This episode explores how the live auction app Whatnot fueled Sean Harding’s compulsive spending, leading him to lose over $1.4 million on sports card breaks. The story examines the app’s frictionless design, which blends social media engagement with high-pressure auctions, raising concerns about gambling-like behaviors. It also covers legal challenges alleging illegal lotteries and Whatnot’s recent introduction of consumer protection measures.

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