Podcasts like The Confessionals

The Confessionals is a group of anonymous forums maintained by Shibo Xu, an Oberlin College graduate, and developed by various short-term collaborators. They provide a space for college and university students to speak openly and candidly, often on taboo subjects. They have become a source for advice but have also generated controversy over the prevalence of anonymous personal attacks.

The first confessional created was Oberlin Confessional, created by Harris Lapiroff based on an idea he had had from a similar Livejournal community. This original confessional gained in popularity until its creator left, after which Shibo assumed control of the site.

When introduced to a college, the confessional often generates a lot of controversy, particularly if it has become a source for anonymous personal attacks. Using the names of others is strictly prohibited under the terms and conditions of the confessional, but names often appear in violation of these rules. Although these confessions are usually removed from the site, they have the ability to do considerable damage while they remain visible. As such, many college administrations have spoken out forcefully against them, but are usually unable to do more without being accused of censorship.